Smart meters are gaining popularity, but their potential to save energy goes largely unrealized, according to research by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).
Though investing billions in advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), most utilities have vastly underused this technology that can help customers save energy, ACEEE says. AMI is now in place in many states, covering nearly half of all meters in the United States.
AMI measures electricity use in short intervals (typically 15 minutes or 60 minutes) rather than by the month. Electricity providers can use such timely, granular data to better manage and optimize generation and grid operations, allowing for cost reduction and faster response to power outages.
The data can also be used to offer better programs and share insights to encourage customers to save energy. Despite these potential benefits, only one of the 52 utilities that ACEEE surveyed—Portland General Electric (PGE)—is building its capacity to optimize use of AMI to save energy.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 21, 2018
Cape Town, South Africa’s dire water supply crisis raises concerns in the U.S.
Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, and Miami among cities at risk for water shortages.
Codes and Standards | Mar 20, 2018
Report shows how LEED certification supports net zero energy
Whole-building energy simulation, ASHRAE compliance requirement are key factors.
Codes and Standards | Mar 15, 2018
Energy efficiency measures contributing to flat demand for power
Utilities having difficulty adjusting to new business environment.
Codes and Standards | Mar 14, 2018
New parking lighting technology is paying off, Energy Dept. says
Newer products can cut energy costs by as much as 70%.
Codes and Standards | Mar 13, 2018
OSHA delays enforcement of beryllium exposure rule
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) voted to delay new beryllium exposure rules until May 11.
Codes and Standards | Mar 12, 2018
L.A. mayor proposes mandatory seismic retrofits for steel buildings, daycare centers, private schools
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has proposed a seismic retrofit requirement for vulnerable steel buildings built before the 1994 Northridge earthquake.
Codes and Standards | Mar 8, 2018
Net zero commercial building trend shows strong momentum
Almost 50% more zero energy commercial buildings under construction in 2017.
Codes and Standards | Mar 7, 2018
Dept. of Energy says 2016 ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 would save 8.2% of energy costs
Favorable comparison to 2013 standard for commercial buildings.
Codes and Standards | Mar 6, 2018
Well Living Lab launches extensive study on how indoor environments affect people’s lives
Factors that impact health, performance, stress and resiliency, sleep, and comfort to be scrutinized.
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2018
New guide helps planners assess innovation districts
The document is designed to aid in targeting resources toward innovative and inclusive economic development based on an area’s unique strengths and challenges.
