CITIZEN POWER ALLIANCE

REGION New York State Electric & Gas Corp. and other transmission owners in the state have agreed to work with the New York Independent System Operator on a "smart grid" project, the NYISO said.

The project involves the creation of a statewide Phasor Measurement Network and the installation of capacitor banks in various locations throughout New York. These investments will enhance the reliability and efficiency of the bulk electricity grid and provide the foundation for further development of smart grid infrastructure in the state, the NYISO said.

The work will be completed over a three-year period starting July 1.

NYSEG President Mark Lynch said adding the smart grid technologies will "enable us to better monitor real-time operational data and better control system voltage," which help enhance system reliability.

NYISO will receive $37.8 million from the U.S. Department of Energy to deploy the smart grid technologies on New York's power grid. The federal funds will support a $75.7 million total investment in the smart grid project.