A smart grid is an energy network that includes power generation, transmission and distribution, a low-power neighborhood network, and grid-aware, energy-consuming devices. A smart grid is capable of two-way interactions from the smallest device to the most complicated expert system. It’s not a single, monolithic, utility-owned network. Rather, it begins with a utility’s metering system, which is built into a network of networks to form an integrated, nationwide power market. Ultimately, the smart grid is an energy network that’s efficient, reliable, and interactive with consumers and end users. It enables and accelerates the adoption of new services and products.

Echelon Provides Two Crucial Pieces of the Smart Grid

• The Networked Energy Services (NES) System, a smart metering infrastructure at the core of the smart grid, connects the grid to households and to consumer-owned products.
• The LonWorks control networking platform automates everyday devices such as air conditioning and lighting systems. Companies adopt the LonWorks technology platform to embed intelligence into the devices and systems that consume energy, making them grid-aware. These grid-aware products and systems extend the smart grid into our cities, buildings, and homes.