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The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) are to work together on an interim roadmap for the development of a smart grid in the US.

As part of the Obama Administration’s energy plans, Congress has given NIST the primary responsibility for coordinating the development of a framework, including protocols and standards, for information management in a smart grid system.

EPRI, which is an independent, nonprofit organization conducting research and development activities on the generation, delivery and use of electricity, will help identify issues and priorities for interoperability standards.

The organisation will also engage with the generation and supply industry to build a consensus on smart grid standards.

NIST will develop a three-phase plan to establish standards for a smart grid by the end of the year for submission to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for approval.

“The Smart Grid is a cornerstone of national efforts to achieve energy independence, save consumers money and curb greenhouse gas emissions,” commented NIST Deputy Director Patrick Gallagher.

“This contract is a significant step in the urgent effort to identify and develop standards that will ensure a reliable and robust Smart Grid.”

For further information:
www.nist.gov/index.html
www.epri.com/