“The Grid” refers to the electric grid, a network of transmission lines, substations, transformers, distribution lines and more that deliver electricity from the power plant to your home or a business. 

Our current electric grid was built over 130 years ago and has improved as technology has changed through the years. It now consists of thousands of electric generating units with over a million megawatts (MW) of generating capacity. It connects hundreds of thousands of miles of transmission lines, but it is a patchwork of old and new technology. 

A new type of “smart” electric grid that can integrate digital and computerized equipment and technologies is emerging. Its digital technology allows for communication between a utility (power company), its customers and sensors along the transmission lines. The smart grid consists of controls, computers, automation, new technologies and equipment working together similar to the internet. All of the parts of the grid can “talk” to each other, transmitting critical information about the flow of electricity.

A smarter grid will better prepare us to handle emergencies such as severe storms, earthquakes and large solar flares. The smart grid will allow for automatic rerouting when equipment fails or outages occur to minimize their effects. Smart grid technologies detect and isolate outages and help ensure that electricity recovery resumes quickly.

The smart grid gives you information to make choices about your energy use. Smart meters and other features allow you to see how much electricity you use. They also provide information about peak demand, times when the need for electricity is highest.