The Board on Energy and Environmental Systems (BEES) of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine provides independent advice to the United States government and the private sector on science and technology policy issues related to energy and the environment. Given the importance of electricity to our nation’s health, safety, and economy, BEES has

What is the Smart Grid?

In its simplest terms, the phrase “smart grid” refers to digitizing and upgrading the electric infrastructure to allow for multi-way communication.  Currently the electric delivery system provides one-way communication.  As the grid evolves and is upgraded, many parties will have access to energy date and will be able to communicate