Smart grid standards: OSGP gets ESNA backing

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The Energy Services Network Association (ESNA) thinks so much of the Open Smart Grid Standard Protocol (OSGP) that it intends to publish it as an open standard and certify compatible smart grid gear. So what's the attraction? According to an ESNA press release, "By publishing OSGP as an open standard, it will enable independent implementation of interoperable meters and other smart grid devices from multiple vendors on the same network. This gives utilities the ability to buy 'best of breed' products and to avoid vendor lock-in that increases costs and reduces innovation." Pioneered by Echelon Corporation, the protocol is built on open, proven standards for control networking. Echelon says OSGP, which is expected to be both a European and international standard, adds more security and reliability services needed for networking and managing equipment used in smart grids. ESNA membership includes utilities, manufacturers and integrators.