The document discusses smart grids, which are developing networks of energy systems that allow for two-way communication between suppliers and consumers. Some key points:
- Cities use 75% of the world's energy and 400 kWh are wasted currently.
- Smart grids would create 370,000 new jobs and allow consumers to get feedback on their energy usage in real-time to reduce consumption.
- When developing smart grids, management of consumer privacy, well-structured implementation to avoid negatively impacting energy companies, and developing new communication and sensor networks are important issues to consider.
- The biggest challenges to implementing smart grids are the large costs and effort required to completely change a country's energy infrastructure and ensure consumers understand