Benchmarking utility smart grid functionality
September 11, 2011
Several rating systems are available to evaluate utility smart grid functionality relative to an ideal standard. The Smart Grid Maturity Model, was developed by IBM and turned over to Carneige Mellon University to maintain and extend in 2009. The model provides a framework to evaluate the current state of smart grid development in eight separate domains (e.g., grid operations, work and asset management, societal and environmental, etc.) using six levels of maturity ratings. The model has been applied at more than 120 utilities as of August, 2011.
The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) recently published a smart grid benefits rating system based on four categories: empowering consumers, creating a smart grid technology/services platform, facilitating sales of demand-side resources in wholesale markets and reducing the environmental footprint. The EDF has applied this framework to evaluate several California utility smart grid programs.
For more info see: Evaluate your utility’s investment planning process
