Enhancing efficiency and renewables with smart grid technologies and policies

• Managing energy demand and expanding distributed energy resources are key to a low-carbon energy future.
• The current U.S. electric grid is both an enabler and a hindrance to these resources.
• A policy framework is needed to attract financing for a smart grid transformation.

Improving the energy efficiency of the built environment and expanding the use of distributed energy to power energy services are two low-carbon approaches that have received considerable attention over recent years. Both of these electricity resource options could be fostered by supportive smart grid technologies and policies, enabling a two-way flow of information and electricity between utilities and consumers and tapping into the full potential of energy efficiency and distributed renewables. This paper explores ways to use smart grid technologies and policies to help energy efficiency and distributed renewables meet future US energy needs. As documented in this review paper, recent progress and policy commitments suggest that the US grid can become an integral part of future clean energy solutions.