Join utility managers in charge of Smart Grid deployments in this unique opportunity to discuss a variety of Smart Grid topics.

Many WEI members are uncertain of what steps, if any, they should take with regard to implementing Smart Grid initiatives. It is also likely that the capital investment levels and dependence on available and emerging automation, communications, and metering technologies have not been fully considered or understood.

Most utilities, even when associated through an organization such as WEI, find themselves working in a silo like environment as they pursue their independent AMI/ Smart Grid initiatives. Even the very definition of what is meant by the term "smart grid" can vary greatly from utility to utility. Unfortunately, thus far, regulatory bodies on the local and national level have offered very little in terms of consistent industry standards or policies for the AMI / Smart Grid sector. If utilities continue to act independently and pursue their own individual choices for AMI / Smart Grid, regional sectors will remain unstructured, disconnected, and therefore unable to achieve the full benefits of the emerging technologies.

Long Term Outcomes:
There are many outcomes that may result from WEI's Smart Grid forum including:

• The development of a regional solution for smart grid
• Increased benefits for members from the creation of industry standards
• Greater leverage for members with technology vendors
• Increased probability of positive regulatory treatment and consistent cost recovery policies at the state or provincial level
• More sharing of best practices at the Home Area Network