Federal Open Data Strategy to boost smart grid efforts

The data availability to energy used ratio is important for utility providers to explore. The growing availability of information helps firms optimize their delivery, avoid risks like blackouts more effectively and minimize issues surrounding the introduction of solar and other renewable resources. This is particularly important as tax payers see their money being invested into these big data efforts and expect a payout in some form or another.

In 2012, several federal initiatives changed the way data is regulated in energy efficiency and related markets. According to the news source, efforts like the Green Button Initiative and the Climate Data Initiative are important for how they influence how data is put to use, but consumers are still waiting to see the turn around.

"Taxpayers paid for these vast troves of data; they should be available," said U.S. Chief Technology Officer Todd Park, according to the source. Park further noted that these data initiatives are expected to drive nearly $3 trillion in economic activity, with $340 billion of that in the electricity markets.

With broadening data availability, it is critical for utilities to support the flow of information with appropriate network infrastructure, including terminal servers and the like.

Perle offers a range of cost effective serial-to-Ethernet converters to help meet NERC-CIP compliance for the protection of critical cyberassets in substations. The IOLAN SDS HV/LDC Terminal Server is designed to meet harsh environments associated with Power Substations with attributes such as support for substation AC and DC voltage ranges, extended operating temperatures and meeting emission, immunity and safety approvals associated with substation IT equipment.