CURRENT Smart Grid Services represent the industry’s most robust capability to leverage real-time electric distribution network data in order to improve reliability, efficiency, and security. This comprehensive service set includes the following core elements:

• Automated outage detection and restoration: When power goes out in some portion of the distribution network, utilities can dispatch crews instantly to the precise location(s) of the outage instead of waiting for phone calls from affected customers and then trying to assess the magnitude of the impact.
  
  
• Automated meter reading (AMR): In addition to the obvious cost savings of AMR, meters can now record usage by time of day (for variable time pricing) and generate a wealth of energy consumption information essential to efficient real-time management of the electric grid. Related capabilities will enable electric distribution utilities to remotely connect and disconnect electrical service through BPL-enabled meters which will improve efficiency and reduce cost by eliminating the need to send a technician to the home or business to perform this function.
  
  
• Load management through remote monitoring of electric utility network equipment: Load management refers to the management of the demand for energy. This capability enables electric distribution utilities to utilize real-time intelligence to manage demand in order to enhance overall network reliability and to achieve greater efficiencies through closely matching energy supply with demand.
  
  
• CURRENT Look™: A software application and database that collects and visually displays voltage readings from both legs of the secondary distribution line at every transformer where BPL equipment has been installed. This system collects readings at regularly scheduled intervals, provides the utility an interface to analyze the data, and has capabilities to export the data into a variety of utility software systems.
  
  
• Geographic Information System(GIS)/Asset Management System Updates: AIPA, through the CT Vision ™ and CT View® network planning and management systems, has the capability to provide updates to the utility’s GIS system as it plans and deploys the BPL network.
  
  
• More efficient demand-side management/direct load control programs: On days when electricity demand is at its highest (typically during the summer months), a utility can manage its “peak loads” to avoid generating or purchasing additional energy when costs are at their highest, or even avoid constructing new power plants.
  
  
• Voltage monitoring from the substation to the meter: This capability improves power quality, thereby minimizing the impact of electrical service on sensitive electronics equipment within the home or business. Voltage monitoring also provides for preventive maintenance opportunities based on real-time data, including predictive fault detection to increase reliability.
  
  
• CurrentCam™ Security Camera: This BPL-enabled camera provides real time video monitoring of important utility assets, such as substations. The BPL system provides a communications link directly to the pole where the camera is mounted. This product may allow utilities to monitor their critical assets in accordance with FERC/NERC Standard 1300.