Get "Plugged In": Grid-Interop Creates Show-and-Tell of Smart Grid Interoperability

PHOENIX, Nov. 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Smart Grid companies are "walking the walk" and demonstrating end-to-end applications of Smart Grid interoperability -- from the utility's back office to the homeowner's thermostat -- and you can see it live at Grid-Interop's first annual Plug-In, Dec. 5-8, 2011, in Phoenix, Ariz.

Organized by the UCA International Users Group, Electric Power Research Institute, and EnerNex, Plug-In will highlight the progress of Smart Grid interoperability in a literal show-and-tell of real-world technology implementations -- from multiple vendors and organizations.

Interoperability refers to the capability of different systems and devices to communicate and operate effectively with one another. Fully interoperable devices are often described as having "plug-and-play" characteristics.

"The standards-based approach to simplify the integration of devices and systems between multiple vendors through interoperability is not only feasible, but it's supported by companies in a competitive marketplace," said Steve Widergren, plenary chair of the Smart Grid Interoperability Panel (SGIP), and principal engineer at the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. "What you'll see at Plug-In is a success story born of the diligent and collaborative efforts from leading standards experts and integrators – a showcase of the progress taking place at Grid-Interop."

Participants in this first-of-a-kind event include a cross-section of industry organizations that will demonstrate how 15 to 20 devices and systems work together in a never-before-seen display of interoperability, consisting of the following scenarios:

• The interoperability of devices that monitor, protect and control modern transmission & distribution (T&D) systems.
• Three demand response scenarios, including residential products and solutions, as well as commercial and industrial (C&I).
• Enhanced cyber security features for the electric utility control system.
• A testing corner to demonstrate meaningful programs that provide confidence in technology evaluation.

More details are available at Grid-Interop's Plug-In site.  

In addition to demonstrating how interoperability efforts are now bearing fruit, Plug-In will provide a working forum that enables Grid-Interop participants to help advance interoperability in needed areas.

"Interoperability impacts the utility's system reliability, product lifecycle cost, and customer satisfaction," said Bob Saint, principal distribution engineer, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, and member, GridWise Architecture Council (GWAC). "We've seen how standardized interoperability has enabled timely and cost-effective implementations, and the entire electric utility industry is quickly moving down that path. I look forward to Grid-Interop and the Plug-in, where we'll have the chance to see our industry's progress in action."

Now in its fifth year, Grid-Interop brings together a true cross-section of industry stakeholders to ensure the rapid development and implementation of Smart Grid interoperability standards through industry-wide collaboration. Grid-Interop is held in partnership with GWAC, SGIP, the Department of Energy (DOE), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Visit www.Grid-Interop.com for more information and to register.

Clasma Events, Inc. specializes in strategic conferences at the center of the worldwide energy discussion. Focusing on Smart Grid, connectivity, and the new energy economy, Clasma's major events include ConnectivityWeek, GridWeek and Grid-Interop.

Clasma, GridWeek, ConnectivityWeek and Grid-Interop are trademarks or registered trademarks of Clasma Events Inc. Other product or service names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

SOURCE Clasma Events, Inc.

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