Video: Why the smart grid is at the forefront of the energy revolution

Using two-way communications, the new smart grid will help incorporate more renewable energy, react faster in emergencies, and use the local storage of electricity (like batteries in electric cars) to manage unexpected peaks.

What’s in it for you?

The smart grid will help the system operator, National Grid, by supporting the introduction of intermittent and decentralised energy production that comes with renewable sources like wind and solar. As a result, it’ll allow for more reliable, efficient energy. But it’ll benefit your business, too.

Monitoring consumption in real-time, and changing behaviour as a result, lets consumers become stakeholders in the energy system. Smart meters and the smart grid facilitate a form of demand-side response, in that they notify suppliers like us when energy is cheaper or more plentiful. In turn, your business can use less energy when the supply is low or demand high, saving on costs.

And that’s just the start of it. As the grid becomes smarter, the benefits will grow too. As smart technology develops, smart meter communications could prompt systems to automatically switch on or off depending on power demand and supply. For example, electric vehicles could be set to charge automatically when renewable sources like wind and solar are plentiful. You can get your business ready for a more flexible energy future, today.

With the government targeting net zero carbon emissions by 2050, businesses and consumers alike need to play their part. Smart meters and the smart grid will be a key player in this revolution. The smart grid - the UK’s intelligent, connected electricity infrastructure - will underpin our transition to a zero-carbon, lower-cost energy future.

So, what are you waiting for? Join the smart revolution by visiting our smart registration page below.