Smart Grids - Grid IT - Where Energy Meets Comms

Synopsis

There is now widespread agreement of the need for smart grids; however the regulatory system and the risk adverse electricity distribution structure are hampering a more rapid deployment. This is creating opportunities for other telcos and companies such as Google and Microsoft to enter this market. Energy and comms technologies offer a powerful coalition that could lead to an energy/comms revolution, resulting in unprecedented new opportunities that will benefit the planet, save energy and thus lower costs and create new business opportunities. This report also discusses how renewable energy can be incorporated (use generated energy) through a far more distributed network architecture (Energy Exchanges).

Table of Contents

• 1. Synopsis
  
• 2. Climate changes issues
  
• 3. The sun is setting on fossil fuels
  
• 4. Regional distribution is lagging behind
  
• 5. The communications issue
  
• 6. User generated energy (UGE)
  
• 7. Energy Exchanges
  
• 8. Government direction is needed
  
  • 8.1 Stimulus packages supporting smart grids
    
• 9. People power will drive developments
  
• 10. Solution coming from elsewhere
  
• 11. Energy retailers need to come onboard
  
• 12. Conflicting interests
  
• 13. New kids on the block
  
• 14. Conclusions
  
• 15. Related reports
  

• Table 1 – European investments in renewable energy – 2006 - 2007; 2020; 2030

• Exhibit 1 – Masdar City – Abu Dhabi
• Exhibit 2 – Is this a case of regulatory failure?
• Exhibit 3 – Energy market deregulation in Australia