Currently, if a power outage occurs power companies rely on their customers to notify them of the situation.  There are no automated systems in place that can automatically handle this task.  But if smart meters are in place the meter can notify the utility company automatically that a problem has occurred.  Using the same IP-based technology that the Internet is based on, smart meters are able to transfer information between the meter and the power company.

This networking ability built into IP-based smart meters allows the devices to localize the problem, preventing it from becoming widespread.  Central command can glance at a computer screen displaying information about where utility trucks are located around the Chicago area to find a work crew closest to where the problem is occurring.
These technologies are possible today with an upgrade of infrastructure including the installation of smart meters.  ComEd hopes to use these infrastructure upgrades to increase power grid reliability for its customers.  Some of the technologies are already in place.  Others are still waiting proper funding.  ComEd is seeking a rate hike through the Illinois Commerce Commission to pay for the new programs.

At an interview on July 1, representatives from ComEd talked about several new technologies that the utility would like to introduce.

- Smart meters.  The new meters will automatically notify ComEd when a power outage has occurred, without a customer call.  Pacific Gas & Electric is currently undergoing an extensive smart meter installation expected to last 6 to 10 years to deploy smart meters for all of its customers, said ComEd’s Communication manager Fidel Marquez.

- The Illinois smart grid Initiative.  ComEd has already begun smart meter installations that will be able to communicate back and forth throughout the power grid; creating a grid that can “heal” itself.  Other devices called “reclosers” are also to be installed that are able to isolate a problem circuit so power can keep flowing without having to dispatch a work crew to manually perform the task.  These devices will allow for problematic areas to be isolated in the smart power grid so a small power outage doesn’t become a large one.  ComEd seeks to dedicate part of the sought rake hike to help pay for this program, according to Marquez.

- Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI).  AMI is the IP backbone for a networked power grid.  It allows for the creation of two-way portals for energy.  When demand for power is high, for example, power could be supplied by a plug-in electric vehicle or a solar panel on the roof of the home.  Conversely, when demand for energy is low appliances in the home can be used cheaply because the supply of power is high.

- Enhanced communications with municipalities.  ComEd already is notifying municipal authorities about power outages using a fax machine.  ComEd has developed a new program that informs city managers, police and fire chiefs, and public works officials through emails and text-messages.  These digital communications allow for instant communications outside of normal office hours when no one may be around the fax machine at city hall.

- ComEd’s “E Outage” program.  Municipal officials, but not customers, can observe a map detailing precisely where power outages are occurring.  The map allows for officials to click on specific areas to get address information in order to notify emergency personnel should a well-being check be needed or to simply notify the resident of how much time it will take to rectify the situation.

- Cycling air conditioners.  Currently, ComEd customers can sign up for a program allowing the utility company to cycle off their air conditioner for 20 minutes each hour.  Air conditioning is a very large component of residential electric bills and the cost savings involved in this program are considerable, said ComEd spokesman Luis Dias Perez.

Exelon (ComEd)
Customer Care Center
P.O. Box 805379
Chicago, IL 60680-5379
http://www.exeloncorp.com

Pacific Gas & Electric
PO BOX 56
Avila Beach, CA 93424-0056
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