ConnectivityWeek Explores Demand Response, Conservation Opportunities for Commercial Buildings

DALLAS, April 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The financial benefits of demand response (DR) may exceed $65 billion by 2030, according to The Brattle Group. With the recent landmark ruling from FERC that makes megawatts of power avoided through DR as valuable as megawatts of power generated by traditional means, there is an even stronger business case for DR investments – especially for commercial and industrial (C&I) buildings.

"Sometimes considered the low-hanging fruit of DR, the C&I industry is looking at a strong Smart Grid business case," said Anto Budiardjo, President, Clasma Events. "Two tracks at ConnectivityWeek –  DR Expo and BuilConn – will explore the value propositions, business models, and technologies for expanding Smart Grid applications beyond the grid."

BuilConn:  BuilConn will help building owners, utilities, IT, and telecommunications companies understand the DR, energy management, micro-generation, storage, and vehicle-integration opportunities for smart buildings. Sessions will also explore how building owners can enter into more profitable relationships with utilities.

"Smart energy systems that control HVAC exist within many commercial buildings today," said Ahmad Faruqui, Principal, The Brattle Group. "Existing automation systems provide a gateway for smart IT to link building systems with the grid for greater efficiency and savings through applications like DR."

DR-Expo:  This track will explore the value of DR across an array of consumer segments. Sessions will explore the value of smart rates, how to create a DR business, and key technologies, including OpenADR.

ConnectivityWeek will explore how information and communications technology (ICT) can be applied to manage energy and deliver efficiency on the grid and across all vertical consumption areas. Other key tracks will include HomeConn, InfraConn, IndConn and the GridWise Expo. Visit http://www.ConnectivityWeek.com, and register before April 10 for the early-bird discount. The event will take place May 23-26 at the Santa Clara Convention Center.

Clasma Events, Inc. specializes in strategic conferences at the center of the worldwide energy discussion. Clasma provides a stage for collaboration and cooperation among industry thought leaders at the forefront of the smart energy movement.  Focusing on Smart Grid, connectivity, and the new energy economy, Clasma's major events include ConnectivityWeek, GridWeek, and Grid-Interop.

Clasma, GridWeek, ConnectivityWeek, and Grid-Interop are trademarks or registered trademarks of Clasma International Corporation. Other product or service names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

SOURCE Clasma Events, Inc.