Looking to Efficiency to Build Energy Independence   (Page 2 of
2)  energy efficiency of our existing grid. MicroPlanet is one
of the companies providing advanced grid solutions. [The author
is president and CEO of MicroPlanet---Eds.]  Our technology
dynamically manages the voltage received from electric utilities
to optimum levels at the point of consumption. In areas where
incoming voltage is high, this allows customers to reduce energy
consumption and lower their electric bills without changing
behavior patterns. In areas where voltage is low, MicroPlanet’s
products can raise it, enabling utilities to improve service
quality for their customers quickly and cost effectively. In
areas where there is a substantial amount of renewable
generation, these same products will dynamically adjust the
voltage up or down, to keep it at a stable, optimal setting.
This is a crucial—but often overlooked—part of the smart grid
technology. Solutions that help us manage voltage efficiently
can reduce consumption and enhance