NIST request for input on Smart Grid Interface
NIST launches a blog seeking public comment and discussion on three aspects of Smart Grid implementation; considers further online discussions in the future.
The Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), has launched this public forum to solicit views on questions pertaining to the consumer interface to the U.S. evolving “smart” electric power grid.
Jump-started by a federal investment of $10.5 billion under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Smart Grid will enable two-way flows of electricity and information. Ultimately, this modernized energy infrastructure will deliver a wide array of benefits, from greater reliance on renewable sources of energy and reduced dependence on foreign oil to higher quality power, fewer disruptions in service, more efficient electrical appliances and systems, and more consumer options for managing home energy use.
NIST says that by using this blog format, it hopes to generate constructive discussion on a number of questions related to the customer interface to the Smart Grid.
Over the next few weeks, the agency will focus discussion on three interface topics central to the consumer participation in the Smart Grid:
- 23 February — 1 March: architectural questions
- 2-7 March” questions concerning data access and ownership
- 8-12 March: questions regarding data communications standards for consumer appliances and other devices that will communicate with the Smart Grid
The agency says it also welcomes public comment on any related issues not covered by the topics above. When the blog ends, a team will review and synthesize the main comments, themes, and recommendations. On-line discussions of other critical Smart Grid issues, such as cybersecurity or policy and regulatory hurdles may be held in the future.
