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Quick Take:  With its smart meter installation largely complete, PG&E is now cautiously dipping its toes into the distribution automation waters, by proposing six pilot projects to test such things as line sensors, voltage control and outage management. It also wants its utility commission to approve customer outreach programs to "increase customer understanding and engagement." - By Jesse Berst

Here are the basics on the six pilot projects:

·         Installation of smart grid line sensors on up to 30 distribution line feeders to demonstrate their ability to improve outage detection, isolation and restoration – and improve system monitoring and control.

·         Voltage and grid controls to help increase line efficiency, optimize grid operations and integrate renewables like rooftop solar.

·         New software decision analysis tools to help with more precisely locating outages and faulted circuit conditions caused by damaged equipment with input from a variety of sensors such as digital protective relays, fault current sensors, SmartMeterâ„¢ voltage measurements and smart grid line sensors.

·         More localized demand forecasting, using tools ranging from SmartMetersâ„¢ to distribution system devices, to help better manage its generation and participation in wholesale energy markets for customers.

·         Development of improved capabilities for technology evaluation and testing as well as participation in industry-wide standards development will, PG&E says, provide critical support for work on other smart grid initiatives in the future.

·         Targeted outreach programs to increase customer understanding and engagement so they can take better advantage of opportunities to save energy and money.

The utility estimates the incremental cost of all six programs at $109 million during a four-year period from 2013 to 2016. PG&E is asking the CPUC approve cost recovery from customers through their electric rates.

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Jesse Berst is the founder and chief analyst of Smart Grid News.com. He consults to smart grid companies seeking market entry advice and M&A advisory. A frequent keynoter at industry events in the US and abroad, he also serves on the Advisory Council of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Energy & Environment directorate.

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