Introduction: The Case for Transformation
The economic and environmental benefits resulting from transforming the electric power system are dramatic. However, these benefits will only be realized if the current outdated regulatory structure is reformed (link to policy framework). New policies are needed to empower consumers, engage communities, attract private investment, encourage innovation, and hold utilities accountable. In addition, these benefits will not be realized unless regulators, utilities, and city leadership join together to develop measurable smart grid goals and plans for achieving these goals, as well as, community scale prototypes to provide for refinement of initial plans and policies.
| 2000 | --2025-- | |||
| Parameter | Baseline | Business As Usual (BAU) | Enhanced Electric Power System | Improvement of Enhanced Productivity Over BAU |
| Electricity Consumption (billion kilowatt hours (kwh)) | 3,800 | 5,800 | 4,900 - 5,200 | 10% - 15% reduction |
| Delivered Electricity Intensity (kwh/$GDP) | 0.41 | 0.28 | 0.20 | 29% reduction |
| % Demand Reduction at Peak | 6% | 15% | 25% | 66% increase |
| % Load Requiring Digital Quality Power | <10% | 30% | 50% | 66% increase |
| Cardon Dioxide Emissions (million metric tons of carbon) | 590 | 900 | 720 | 20% reduction |
| Productivity Growth Rate (%/year) | 2.9 | 2.5 | 3.2 | 28% increase |
| Real GDP (billions of dollars, 1996) | 9,200 | 20,700 | 24,300 | 17% increase |
| Cost of Power Disturbances to Businesses (billions of dollars, 1996) | 100 | 200 | 20 | 90% reduction |
