Mischer News

CenterPoint Energy Inc., is working with Houston to install new smart meters within the city at the request of funding.  Under a $200 million grant applied for by CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric LLC to the US Department of Energy, the “Houston’s Smart Grid: Transforming the Future of Electric Distribution & Energy Consumption” Project would see this goal realized.

Why the upgrade?  The new meters send usage information to both CenterPoint Energy and consumers.  This means citizens can check their electric usage online updated at 15 minute intervals.  Those without internet or a PC can check their usage via an in home monitor.  The new system even notifies CenterPoint about power outages automatically.

If funding is approved, CenterPoint would use $150 million towards installing these smart meters, and use the remainder to install a new intelligence grid, which includes self healing technology, advanced metering systems, and other tech that improves performance and reliability.

The plan is set to span 5 years, which began in March 2009.  Currently there are already 45,000 meters installed and they plan on having 145,000 by the end of the year with the aid of funding.  Within time, more Houston residents will be “smart” with their energy.

To learn more, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.

Source: Houston Business Journal