Smart grids incorporate a wide range of technologies and practices to make the operation of electric power systems more efficient, facilitate more efficient energy use in buildings and industry, and enable the greater penetration of intermittent renewable power sources.

The Smart Grid pillar will focus on:

• Increasing energy efficiency by enabling demand response.
• Lowering carbon emissions by reducing the need for as much production of electricity.
• Speeding the deployment of renewable energy by enabling easier integration into the power grid.