Smart Grid Agenda

NHK news 8/19/2011 (audio)

NHK interviewed Bruster McCraken [check spelling], the 
executive director of the Peacan Street Project in 
Austin, Texas about their data collection on a smart grid 
encompassing 150 homes. NHK:  "What do you think is 
necessary to achieve more efficient use of energy?" 
MCCRAKEN: "One dirty secret about energy usage is that 
nobody cares. Even people with high energy awareness.  I 
mean they care but, that all the research shows that even 
the most committed consumers, it's to much information 
for people to stay on top of.  That's why software and 
computer systems are going to be so important.
   Unfortunately most of the efforts on small smart grids 
look at ways that people can be required to have less 
electricity, and less comfort, and higher bills.  We do 
not believe that success for smart grids will be 
accomplished if the utilities are able to turn off 
people's air conditioners.  That may be something that is 
necessary to do in times of crisis."

My comment:  Do you see the conflict here?  The 'dirty 
secret' McCraken points out is coming head to head with 
software and computer systems that will do the caring for 
us.
   McCraken is an enthusiastic supporter of the science 
of his project, and from the tone of the interview, very 
thrilled to be part of this study, the Peacon Street 
Project.  However, I question anybodies committment when 
money is involved and I would assume there is a lot at 
stake, economically and politically lining up for smart 
grids. How committed could this project be to fighting 
for the rights of individual to control their own off/on 
switch to their power supply so I see his admission here 
as that of being a 'shill' for the energy companies when 
and if they decide to take control of energy with smart 
grids.  I do admire him for taking the weak stand that he 
did, knowing full well no one will blame him when he and 
others caves in to economic demands.
  
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