The Smart Grid initiative to modernize the electric grid is gaining a ubiquitous mention in a broad range of media as the next major revolution in this sector. Research analyst firms have forecasted huge global investments in the Smart Grid infrastructure. For instance, the latest forecasts from ABI Research suggest that Global investment in smart grids will approach $46 billion in 2015. However, it is important to temper the zealous picture of an electric power panacea, with the reality is that the Smart Grid represents a very lengthy, methodical, evolutionary transformation and not a revolutionary change that will be realized overnight.

With that said, the growing end-to-end market for Smart Grid technologies and applications, including smart metering infrastructure, energy management systems, transmission upgrades, substation automation, distribution automation, energy storage and electric vehicle management will continue to offer entrepreneurs with plentiful opportunities. It’s important therefore to gain an understanding of the Smart Grid from end-to-end, such that insight can be gained of the ultimate vision and end goals. With that objective, the TIE SED and Cleantech SIGs have put together a series of panels spread over the upcoming months featuring technology experts, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, research analysts, and investors who will discuss market trends and expand on the challenges and opportunities Smart Grid offers.

This is the first panel of the series and will focus on providing a broad overview of the projects being undertaken within the Smart Grid Initiative. Expect to hear first-hand from a wide-range of industry experts, all of who are working to solve specific problems throughout the emerging, end-to-end Smart Grid. There will be detailed coverage of specific pilot projects being undertaken and an opportunity for Q&A.