The smart grid is built upon technology platforms from Augusta Systems. The test facility features an intelligent network linking meters, thermostats, appliance control devices, home area networks, power line sensors, security devices and other systems.
Interoperability – making certain the several technologies work with each other and with existing utility systems – is one of the cornerstones of a smart grid and a major goal of the company’s Advanced Utility Infrastructure projects. Recognizing the significance of industry-wide collaboration, the company’s test facility has an open-door policy to demonstrate its approach and to learn from other projects.
The electricity industry and the federal government have been taking efforts to ensure integration between various smart grid technologies and systems. The recent federal economic stimulus bill comprised funding for interoperability standards development and recommended that smart grid projects funded through the legislation feature technology openness.
The research ridge lab opened in 2008 and is one of three advanced utility infrastructure projects under development by Allegheny. The others comprised the West Virginia Super Circuit, which will evaluate the integration of advanced system monitoring and control; and Modern Grid, a field test for isolating system faults and restoring electricity service without manual intervention. All three projects are located in Morgantown, West Virginia.