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(CHARLOTTE) -- Duke Energy and Cisco Systems have agreed to a three-year partnership to develop a new hi-tech "smart grid." Duke aims to accelerate the conversion of its existing electricity distribution infrastructure.
Duke Energy is seeking a rapid conversion of its existing electricity delivery infrastructure into a grid that uses two-way digital communication. This new hi-tech system would reduce energy usage, improve efficiency, improve reliability, detect power outages, and integrate solar and other renewable energy sources into the electric grid. “Replacing our analog electric grid with advanced digital technology to create a 21st century electricity delivery system largely involves data, networks and communications all of it Cisco’s expertise,” said Todd Arnold, senior vice president for smart grid and customer systems at Duke Energy. Duke and Cisco will work together to evaluate a variety of smart grid communications hardware and software, and oversee installation and testing of selected equipment and software throughout Duke Energy’s electric grid. The effort will also involve the development and installation of home energy management devices to help customers control and reduce their electricity consumption. “Partnering with Cisco is central to Duke Energy’s plan to build an ‘energy internet’ that will improve electricity delivery, strengthen grid security, lessen our company’s environmental impact, and help customers reduce their electricity usage,” said Arnold. In Ohio, Duke Energy later this year will launch a five-year mass deployment of smart grid technology, including more than 700,000 electric smart meters and 450,000 natural gas smart meters. In Indiana, Duke Energy is seeking approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to install extensive smart grid technology, including approximately 800,000 smart meters. The company also is laying the groundwork to bring large-scale smart grid technology to three other states, including North Carolina. Cisco Systems is the world's largest network communications company with a major campus in North Carolina. Charlotte-based Duke Energy provides electricity to 11 million people across five states. |
