PNNL GridWise

Overview

This is a case study of two year-long demonstration projects that tested demand-response concepts. The Grid Friendly Appliance Project demonstrated how household appliances can reduce energy consumption at critical moments when they are fitted with controllers that sense stress on the grid. The Olympic Peninsula Project found that homeowners are willing to adjust their energy use based on price signals provided via information technology tools. Both studies helped reduce energy use during times of peak demand. The study was funded by the Department of Energy and carried out by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, regional utilities, and industry partners.

"GridWise seeks to modernize the nation's electric system - from central generation to customer appliances and equipment - and create a collaborative network filled with information and abundant market-based opportunities. Through GridWise, we can weave together the most productive elements of our traditional infrastructure with new, seamless plug-and-play technologies. Using advanced telecommunications, information and control methods, we can create a "society" of devices that functions as an integrated, transactive system."

Highlights

This case study provides an example of how one community integrated smart grid technologies and realized measurable benefits, including reduced stress on the grid (leading to reduced power outages) and reduced need for new generation, transmission, and distribution systems. This may help other communities understand how smart grid options can help them reach their energy goals.

Notes

Information and facts about the GridWise Demonstration Project can be found at GridWise Demonstration Project Fast Facts