This course is intended primarily to acquaint the engineer on the existence and benefits of a smarter electrical grid, as well as an introduction to the present and future technologies. Our nation’s electric power infrastructure that has served us so well for so long, also known as “the grid” , is rapidly running up against its limitations. Our lights may be on, but systemically, the risks associated with relying on an often overtaxed grid grow in size, scale and complexity every day. From national challenges like power system security to those global in nature such as climate change, our near-term agenda is formidable. Fortunately, we have a way forward. There is growing agreement among federal and state policymakers, business leaders, and other key stakeholders, around the idea that a Smart Grid is not only needed but reasonably achievable. Topics: Overview of the Smartgrid Principle Introduction to Smartgrid Technologies Risks associated with the Electrical Grid in it's present state What the Smartgrid is and is not Future goals of the Smartgrid Obstacles faced by the Utilities and Regulators Consumer Participation Smartgrid Success Stories Intended Audience: This course is intended for electrical, mechanical, civil, systems and other engineering professionals whose job description may require a basic introductory knowledge of Smartgrid technologies. Publication Source: US Dept. of Energy