What do you think of smart grid technology? What effects would you expect to see on energy usage with the increased development of a smart grid?
2. According to Botkin (2010), in August 2003, nearly 55 million residents of the United States and Canada were affected by a widespread electricity blackout caused by too much demand on the energy grid. Electrical energy is difficult to store; accordingly, it is usually consumed shortly after it is generated. Therefore, when there is a sudden increase in the demand for electricity, the demand may overload the electrical grid. What might be some consequences of a long-term blackout of a week or longer? What do you think the United States might do to ensure that blackouts do not happen?
3. Do you think it would be more cost-effective to repair, restore, and develop the current electrical grid in the United States or convert to a smart grid? Which solution do you favor?
4. Fuel cells are a possible solution for storing and using natural gas.
Answer
