Published on 05/30/2017 | Technology
Utilities across the country are embarking on the deployment of smart grid technologies. They are motivated by the need to modernize aging infrastructure, improve efficiency, and empower customers. In addition to these benefits, smart grid deployments present significant opportunities to further leverage these investments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 5-9% from 2005 levels and deliver 0.7 gigatons of CO2e GHG reductions that amount to nearly one-quarter of the Waxman-Markey targets for 2030. A network- first approach to deploying unified smart grid networks lowers costs and accelerates application deployment. Such sizable reductions depend on smart grid network connectivity and can be realized through improved energy efficiency and conservation; increased integration of utility-scale and distributed renewable generation; and large- scale penetration of vehicle electrification that displaces oil with electric power.
In this context, the smart grid emerges as a critical tool to address global climate change. This paper is divided into four sections. The first section will size up smart grid deployments that are taking place today and that can be expected to further accelerate in coming years. The second section will explore some of the driving forces behind smart grid deployments and examine the role of climate change. The third section will identify and quantify specific mechanisms through which a forward-thinking smart grid can help address climate change. The fourth and final section will recommend policy actions to ensure that smart grid infrastructure being built today delivers maximum climate benefits.
You can read and download the full report on Silver Spring Networks here
