Trilliant Networks is a Smart Grid player to watch. The company provides communications networks that enable all types of applications: advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), demand response (DR), distributed energy resources, and distribution automation.
They’ve been in the Smart Grid space since 2004, but the company has a 20-year legacy of serving utilities of all stripes: IOU’s, muni’s, coops and more. No “one size fits all” approach here.
What trends in Smart Grid development does the company see for 2011?
Sonita Lontoh, Trilliant’s Global Marketing Director, answered that question at GigaOM’s Green:Net 2011 Conference.
Lontoh’s insights:
1. It’s best to take an integrated - not an applications - approach.
For Smart Grid development to make sense, industry people have recognized the importance a top down, end-to-end network perspective. Why? With an applications approach that considers only facets such as AMI or DR, “you might end up building a network that isn’t capable of handling all the future applications you wish to do.”
2. Consumer education is paramount.
Utilities and vendors are realizing that Smart Grid is more than just a matter of technology roll-out. Engagement comes about by explaining the value proposition to consumers, and what it will mean for them. “Without that buy-in, there is no way the Smart Grid will become a reality.