Smart Grid/Smart Meters

The term "Smart Grid" encompasses a broad spectrum of solutions that aim to optimize the energy value chain. In general, the Smart Grid concept utilizes advanced computer applications and real-time communications networks to create a modernized power grid with multiple interactive and interoperable capabilities. Several federal agencies, utility companies, regulators, and equipment manufacturers have begun multiple processes to identify and quantify the potential benefits of implementing Smart Grid concepts on a wide-spread basis throughout the United States.

The importance of the Smart Grid concept to the United States economy was recently underscored by the inclusion of significant funding for Smart Grid projects in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Golden Energy Services Capabilities

Golden Energy Services has assisted several clients in evaluating renewable resource opportunities and the impacts of integrating large amounts of intermittent renewable generation onto regional power grids. Some of the specific areas in which Golden Energy can assist customers with are:

  • Analysis of potential new renewable energy projects.
  • Evaluation of wind energy grid integration impacts and associated costs.
  • Design and implementation of demand side resources/load management programs.
  • Integration of internal-load management programs with market-based solutions.
  • Evaluation of potential energy storage applications.
  • Analysis of potential distributed generation applications.
  • Completion of generation portfolio modeling and cost studies.
  • Completion of transmission system/renewable energy resource optimization studies.
  • Development and implementation of web-based tools to allow end-use energy customers to monitor and manage their energy usage and energy purchase decisions.
  • Development and implementation of end-use customer energy risk management training programs.
  • Development and implementation of energy usage and energy savings tracking programs for individual end-use customers, utility companies, regulators, and governmental agencies.
  • Evaluation of energy-related regulatory issues related to implementation of Smart Grid concepts.
  • Development of materials and programs for customer education on Smart Grid concepts.