Infrastructure and Distribution
Smart metering programme in California to get $1.63 billion
Southern California Edison’s (SCE) smart metering program, Edison SmartConnect, is to receive $1.63 billion in funding from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
SCE is planning to install 5.3 million new ‘smart’ meters for its residential and small business customers between 2009 and 2012.
The Edison SmartConnect system enables thermostats and appliances to respond automatically to electricity demand peaks, when prices are higher. The system can reduce peak energy consumption by around 1000 MW.
Customers can also see how much energy they are using in real time and what it’s costing them – allowing users to change their behaviour accordingly.
“This decision marks a new era for our customers and for SCE,” says vice president Paul De Martini. “Edison SmartConnect enables customers to more effectively manage energy.”
For further information:
www.sce.com/smartconnect