Several years after the failure of Xcel s SmartGridCity initiative in Boulder, the utility has launched a plan called Our Energy Future that involves testing new technology that it says will pave thw way for an interactive, intelligent and efficient grid. Hyoug Chang, Denver Post file
Re: A comeback for the smart grid?, Jan. 29 editorial.
The Denver Post makes a good point that Xcel needs to move towards a smarter, more sophisticated grid. However, spending their customers money on 10,000 new meters isn t the best first step.
Rather than focusing on new ways to bill customers, Xcel should be planning for — and investing in — technologies to improve the generation, management and delivery of power. Producing clean electricity on the roofs of homes, schools, hospitals and businesses improves the efficiency of the grid. Energy storage solutions allow consumers to save money on their bill by using electricity when it s cheapest.
When Xcel invests its customers dollars, the value needs to justify the cost. Ten thousand new meters doesn t pass this test. Rather, Xcel should turn its attention to comprehensive solutions that promise a stronger grid, cleaner power, and better service to its customers.
John Bernhardt, Denver
This letter was published in the Feb. 7 edition.Xcel s continued research and work in the testing and adoption of new technology to help meet the growing energy demand of consumers is good news. Its new smart grid may have had a rough launch a couple of years ago, but if the company has learned from its initial experience, I suspect that another attempt will see a smoother rollout with positive consumer response.
The embrace of new technology, whether for learning or for switching on the lights, can deliver heightened efficiency, lower costs, and increased accountability that benefits Colorado s residents and businesses. Consistent and reliable access to energy is our lifeblood and represents future opportunities for our students in Colorado and across the world. I applaud the resilience of Xcel as it seeks to get back into the ring with another launch of its smart grid technology.
Becky Takeda-Tinker, Greenwood Village
The writer is president of Colorado State University-Global Campus.
This letter was published in the Feb. 7 edition.
