Full Title: A Policy Framework for the 21st Century Grid: Enabling Our Secure Energy Future
Author(s): A. Chopra (Co-chair), V. Kundra (Co-chair), P. Weiser (Co-chair)
Publisher(s): Executive Office of the President, National Science and Technology Council
Publication Date: June 1, 2011
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):
While there is no one-size-fits-all set of smart grid solutions, there are important unifying policy strategies that can advance US leadership in the 21st century clean energy economy. This report outlines such policies and details efforts by the Federal Government and others to advance them.
The policy framework set forth in this report was developed by the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) Subcommittee on Smart Grid. To develop this framework, the Subcommittee conducted an extensive outreach and research process to identify policies that build on the Administration’s smart grid investments and constitute an important part of the Administration’s clean energy strategy. Notably, the policies highlighted in this document are just one part of the overall grid modernization effort. In particular, the Administration’s smart grid strategy complements its efforts to spur the planning and siting of new high voltage transmission lines and to facilitate the integration of variable renewable energy. While these topics are outside the scope of this document, the Administration recognizes that overall grid modernization efforts are critical to supporting the energy needs of the 21st century.
This policy framework rests on four pillars for a smarter grid—(1) enabling cost-effective smart grid investments; (2) unlocking the potential of innovation in the electric sector; (3) empowering consumers and enabling informed decision making; and (4) securing the grid from cybersecurity threats. These pillars each support key aspects of the transition to a smarter grid and a clean energy future.