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U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced delivery of more than US $47 million in funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for eight projects to further smart grid demonstration projects in seven states. Secretary Chu also announced $10.5 million in Recovery Act funding available for local governments to develop emergency preparedness plans for their electrical systems.
In addition, Secretary Chu has emphasized that public education and awareness are key components of the Department of Energy's grid modernization efforts.
The $47 million in Recovery Act awards will support existing projects that are advancing demonstration-scale smart grid technologies. This investment will add to the $17 million in funds the Department had awarded these projects in 2008 following a competitive award process. Click here to see a list of the projects.
The $10.5 million to increase the nation’s energy security is available for local governments to apply for competitive energy assurance grants ranging between $60,000 and $300,000.
As part of its efforts to inform Congress, energy stakeholders, and the public about smart grid efforts, the Department of Energy has also released its first Smart Grid System Report, which examines the status of smart grid deployments nationwide and any regulatory or government barriers to continued deployment.
The report finds that while many smart grid capabilities are just beginning to emerge, the adoption of various technologies – such as smart metering, automated substation controls and distributed generation – is growing significantly.
To download the the full Smart Grid System Report, click here.
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