Grid-Interop Gets Real: Top Smart Grid Interoperability Leaders Focus on Implementation

PHOENIX, Nov. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- For the fifth year, Grid-Interop will gather the top technical Smart Grid minds to discuss real-world implementations of interoperability and advance Smart Grid standards, architecture and community in Phoenix, Ariz., Dec. 5-8, 2011.

More than 100 industry-leading speakers will participate in 30 sessions to cover critical areas of progress and opportunity related to: information interoperability, architecture, business, policy, and cross-cutting issues like cyber security.

Held in partnership with the GridWise Architecture Council, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Smart Grid Interoperability Panel and Department of Energy, Grid-Interop brings together a cross-section of industry stakeholders to focus on the most critical topics and issues.

"Grid-Interop has provided the forum for collaboration that's enabled much of the progress related to Smart Grid interoperability to date," said George Arnold, national coordinator for Smart Grid interoperability, NIST.  "In December, we'll focus on advances in real-world implementations of Smart Grid technology, as well as key areas necessary to ensure continued momentum toward making the Smart Grid a reality."

New in 2011, the Plug-In will provide a first-of-its-kind demonstration of Smart Grid interoperability in a literal show-and-tell of interoperable systems and devices – from the utility's back office to the homeowner's thermostat. Six scenarios covering demand response, cyber security, transmission and distribution, and a testing corner will be displayed.  Plug-in is organized by UCA International Users Group, Electric Power Research Institute and EnerNex.

"In addition to paper presentations and panel discussions, our inaugural Plug-In will provide a showcase of interoperability in action – something people can really touch and feel," said Anto Budiardjo, president, Clasma. "This will create a centerpiece for great discussion and action."

Interoperability refers to the capability of different systems and devices to communicate and operate effectively with one another in a "plug-and-play" fashion.

Grid-Interop will also create a collaborative networking forum via its Face-Time session, providing an intimate venue for discussing critical industry topics, as well as scheduled networking receptions.

Visit www.Grid-Interop.com to register.

Clasma Events, Inc. specializes in strategic conferences at the center of the worldwide energy discussion. 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 Events Inc. Other product or service names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

SOURCE Clasma Events, Inc.