The smart grid can usher in a whole new way of interacting with the electricity system. When storms knock down wires, smart sensors can detect and isolate the problem without us noticing. Or, if we’re feeling especially ambitious, we can program our electric vehicle to automatically charge when electricity prices are low. To do this, the smart grid requires a robust communications network.   READ MORE >>

For the past few years, the costs of solar photovoltaic panels and hardware have seen significant declines, and that’s expected to continue. Great news for fans of solar!   READ MORE >>

The recent shale gas boom has gained the reputation as our energy savior: clean, domestic, cheap, and plentiful. But, the attractiveness of today’s low natural gas price can cause us to overlook a serious risk: volatility.   READ MORE >>

Last month, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel extended the Retrofit Chicago program to commercial buildings. But is it enough?   READ MORE >>

Between April 2011 and March 2012, the U.S. generated 5 percent of the country’s annual electricity from renewable sources, according to preliminary data from the Energy Information Administration.   READ MORE >>