How Smart is Your City?

Abstract

This article discusses a $3.7 million energy program that is expected to save the city of Cumberland, Maryland, $8 million in energy and operating costs over 15 years. A smart grid system with automated meter‐reading (AMR) on a network was installed that also provides citywide WiFi service. The AMR system alone will reduce labor costs, improve the city's cash flow by allowing monthly instead of quarterly billing, and speed up the leak‐detection and repair process, thereby reducing water loss and protecting residents' property. The article discusses the smart‐grid concept in the municipal utility context, which aligns with water conservation. It allows two‐way digital communication between the utility and the customer, helps the utility operate more efficiently, curtails waste, and holds down prices. In addition, it helps customers see their own water and electricity use, which supports informed choices about how much to use, when to use it, and at what cost. Smart‐grid technology is discussed, along with system affordability.