This book is intended for electric utility managers, directors, and power system planners, regulators, and policy makers interested in the steps needed to realize the value of a modern power delivery system. This book describes the elements needed in planning and implementing a "Smart Grid" by outlining how the electricity delivery system can be modernized so it monitors, protects, and automatically optimizes the operation of its interconnected elements-from the central and distributed generator through the high-voltage network and distribution system, to energy storage installations and to end-use consumers and their thermostats, electric vehicles, appliances, and other household devices. This comprehensive guide highlights emerging concepts of cyber and physical security, resiliency, and the newest architecture-"The Integrated Grid." You'll gain an understanding of how a two-way flow of electricity and information can be used to create an automated, widely distributed energy delivery network.

This book discusses the role electricity plays in sustaining and improving the quality of life. The author elucidates the numerous approaches to estimating value, including electricity's contribution toward the U.S. Gross Domestic Product; its role in medicine, and its ability to power communications. Traditional measures such the cost of outages, the impact of storms, the cost of restoring power systems after storms, the Value of Lost Load (VOLL), consumer Willingness to Pay (WTP) to avoid outages, and consumer surveys are covered extensively. In addition, the book speculates on life without electricity and how society may have evolved without it.