SmartGridCity technology will allow Boulder residents to go online to see how much power they are using and what it is costing them. They will be able to control their energy usage with the help of “intelligent” appliances communicating with the power grid. Xcel page on the technology.
Phase I: March 2008 – August 2008
* Includes full-system automation, monitoring and smart meters for the first group of SmartGridCity customers. Involves upgrades to two substations, five feeders and nearly 15,000 meters (representing both residential, commercial and light industrial customers) in Boulder.
* A Web portal will provide consumers with insight into their energy use and information for better home energy management.
* A dedicated customer service phone number (1-877-887-3339) and e-mail address (SmartGridCity@xcelenergy.com) for SmartGridCity customers.
* Some customers can choose to have in-home automation tools, allowing increased control over home energy use and costs.
* By mid-August, initial capabilities should be demonstrated.
Phase II: September 2008 – December 2009
* Complete the installation of a distribution and communication network for remaining areas within Boulder (an additional two substations, 20 feeders and smart meters for an additional 35,000 premises).
* Expanded in-home automation installations.
* Enable Web portal access to all SmartGridCity customers.
* Begin initial integration of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, solar and wind co-generation sources onto the grid in Boulder.