What is the future of SmartGridCity Boulder?

Smart grid is a term used to describe upgrading the electric power system with the capacity to provide more reliable and cost-effective service, accommodate renewable energy sources and give customers tools for saving on their electric usage.

It is a huge effort that will take many years and billions of dollars to implement. The smart grid is an essential ingredient to the future of the United States for reasons of efficiency, reliability and national security. Recent power failures like the one in San Diego last summer highlight all of these concerns.

SmartGridCity is an Xcel Energy Inc. demonstration project imposed upon the…