The US Smart Grid is coming; quickly. Of all expected green initiatives, the smart electrical grid may be one of the fastest moving to date. Consumers are ready for the energy savings and more people are becoming realistic about what needs to happen to help heal our environment. The smart grid will offer both.

One essential part of a complete smart grid is a control unit in every home and business. This control unit would be able to monitor and track electrical power usage and notify consumers of times when electrical rates are at a peak. Consumers would have the option of reducing power usage for real-time savings, or set the controls to automatically shut-down unnecessary electrical devices during peak hours.

Two software programs have already been released to move consumers in the smart grid direction. Google has released PowerMeter and Microsoft has released MS Hohm (pronounced - home). Both are designed to be a part of the smart grid system.

Microsoft Hohm advertises an array of functions to assist users in reducing electrical usage right away. Functions include a home survey to help consumers pinpoint waste and eliminate it. The software can suggest improvements such as added insulation or upgraded windows. MS Hohm can be connected to an on-line system with the local power company to accurately track power usage in real-time. The system can also receive messages concerning peak hours and radical changes in power consumption.

Google PowerMeter advertises the same connect ability to the power company, but says very little about any other functions available. PowerMeter is able to track and analyze electrical usage and suggest adjustments in consumer habits.

While both programs seem to offer some outstanding features, to get the full benefit of either one a power company connection is required, and the power company must have the same software as the consumer. Microsoft and Google list local power companies that are currently working with them to provide full service connections for their respective programs. One possible problem is that these geographic areas are very limited to date and information is not readily available as to whether the Google and Microsoft programs will be compatible when the full smart grid goes on-line.

In order for the complete smart grid to work as projected, the software and hardware systems would have to be fully compatible; all made under strict guidelines to ensure seamless communication across the grid. This may require regulation, otherwise multiple software programs will continue to emerge and cause a possible series of glitches in what should be a reliable and faultless electrical power grid.