Leading Energy Expert: Maryland Paving Way for Smart Grid

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 25, 2007

Contact:
Crystal Borde
(202) 331-4323
cborde@vancomm.com

***INTERVIEW ALERT***

Leading Energy Expert: Maryland Paving Way for Smart Grid

Governor O’Malley and leading energy experts today are gathering at the Maryland Energy Summit to discuss ways to reduce Marylanders’ electricity bills, increase energy production and improve distribution. The summit is addressing two things that the Galvin Electricity Initiative support and will better serve the consumer – implementing smart metering technology and changing the compensation structure for utilities in Maryland to allow for energy efficiency programs.

According to the Initiative, these changes are key steps toward providing reliable power for consumers, reducing electricity expenses and protecting the environment.

WHAT: The Galvin Electricity Initiative, launched by former Motorola chief Robert W. Galvin, which has brought together some of the best minds in energy to create and implement a new electric power system that meets the needs of 21st century consumers.

WHO: Kurt Yeager, executive director of the Galvin Electricity Initiative.  Mr. Yeager is also president emeritus of the Electric Power Research Institute and chair of the World Energy Council Study on Energy and Climate Change.

Mr. Yeager is available to discuss the value of the steps taken in Maryland and the broader statewide actions necessary to renewing the power system. He will also address the bigger challenges facing that system, which puts all consumers and businesses at risk for power failure.

WHY: “For too long, customers have been shut out of the dialogue, when instead they should be treated as active participants and partners in the electricity enterprise. Rewarding utilities for efficiency and customer service facilitates that relationship, and smart metering technology gives consumers the tools they need to benefit from it, from reducing their bills to helping protect the environment. Maryland’s decoupling efforts are steps in the right direction, paving the way for a future electric system that is affordable, efficient and reliable,” Yeager said.

WHEN: Interviews are available by request.

(To arrange an interview please contact Crystal Borde by phone at 202-331-4323 or e-mail at cborde@vancomm.com)

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