Utility Company Tests Smart Grid in Colorado

Would you like to mange your electrical usage via the Web? For example, you could program your dishwasher to only run when there is wind power available in your area. While at work, you could remotely choose to shut off the water heater at your home for a few hours to conserve energy.

Xcel Energy, Inc., a utility company, is currently running a smart grid test in Boulder, Colorado. It's the first time a high-tech smart grid has been tested in the United States.

Participants in the test can go online and view how much electricity they used the day prior and see how much energy each appliance uses. The test will soon allow them to choose where they want there energy to come from, be it wind, renewable, etc.

The test also allows Xcel Energy to go into neighborhoods and remotely shut off or turn down thermostats when the grid is strained.

Of course with any new gadget there are those for it and against it. Allowing utility companies to go into our homes has some worried that big brother is invading our homes and decision making. Those for the smart grid, think it will help people to be more energy conscience.

Please read the article, The More You Know, in The Wall Street Journal, to learn more about the smart grid test in Colorado. Then hop on back here and let me know your thoughts.