The modernization of Duke Energy’s power grid is under way in Ohio

The modernization of Duke Energy’s power grid is under way in Ohio.
What is the smart grid?
A smart grid is a power distribution system that uses digital technology to enable two-way “conversation”
between Duke Energy and our customers, using advanced meters and other high-tech communications
equipment. It’s a new way of working with our customers – helping them to manage energy better, save
money and help the environment.
By giving Duke Energy timely information about what is happening on our system, the smart grid allows
us to quickly detect and resolve problems, prevent and shorten power outages, improve
service reliability and give customers information to better manage their energy use.
How does it work?
It starts by installing communication boxes alongside our transformers. These boxes
may not look high-tech, but they are the “brains” of the whole smart grid system.
They create a virtual energy Internet – collecting data from the smart meters and
other digital equipment on the power lines, and sending it over a wireless network
back to Duke Energy and then back to the customer. We will install more than 10,000
communication boxes in Ohio in 2010.
Smart digital meters give the communication boxes something to talk about – valuable
data about a home or business’s energy use. Since 2008, when the Public Utilities
Commission of Ohio approved our smart grid program, Duke Energy has installed
approximately 60,000 smart electric meters and 40,000 smart gas meters in Ohio
And in 2010, we will install about 80,000 more smart electric meters and 58,000
more smart gas meters.
This map shows where meters are scheduled to be installed starting in 2010.
Duke Energy customers who live in counties / areas not shown on the map
should expect to receive smart meter starting in 2012 and beyond.