College Republican Federation of Virginia

Smart grids are a fascinating new way to increase energy efficiency while also retaining some semblance of free choice.

Part of the energy bill passed by the U.S. House included $2.25 billion in grants that promotes the use of smart grids. Obviously, the states where this is taking root are on the West Coast where blackouts and a lack of energy remain problems.

What this would do is increase the rates of electricity in peak hours. In most cases, that would make electricity much more expensive for the average American if they did not alter their usage patterns. For some people, this would cause them to scale back on their electric usage altogether. For others, they could wash clothes at night while they’re sleeping or do the dishes early in the morning. A study done with the technology in 2003 found that customers with this technology typically cut their electric usage as well as altering the time they used it.

While this technology is tested out, it’s estimated that it would take between $14 and $26 billion to install it nationwide. So even though I’m positive we won’t be seeing Virginia Power rolling this out anytime soon, it is yet another fascinating idea towards increased energy efficiency.