Government Program Briefing

Résumé du livre

Smart meters (also known as advanced meters) are a physical technology that is added to or replaces a typical gas, electric, or water meter (fitting in the same footprint). This case study focuses solely on electric smart meters. Most smart meters are computerized and allow for remote data collection through periodic (e.g. 15-minute, hourly, daily) communication to the utility on energy use. In this way, utilities can gather information on energy use. Smart meters also have the ability to provide output to customers on real-time energy use to allow for behavioral modifications. Grids with smart meters or "smart grids" attempt to predict demand and react to rapid changes in demand and supply to deliver efficient, reliable, and sustainable electric power. Smart meters are part of a smart grid but the meters themselves do not comprise the entire smart grid solution, but rather a part of the physical backbone of the system.