• On May 29, 2012, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) rejected Ameren Illinois’ Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) plan to implement a $625 million smart grid program. Pursuant to legislation enacted in 2011, Ameren Illinois is required to devise a plan that will enhance the electricity grid. The ICC voted unanimously to send the AMI plan back to Ameren Illinois, because it does not sufficiently explain how promised cost savings for customers will be achieved and it would take too long to implement. Ameren Illinois must either challenge the ICC’s ruling or modify its smart grid program and present it to the ICC again for approval. The ICC’s order rejecting the plan is available here.
  • The U.S. Department of Energy and the Utilities Telecom Council (UTC) have announced a Critical Infrastructure Communications Policy Summit to be held on June 19, 2012 in Washington, DC. The Summit will focus on “aligning policies, technologies and communications networks that support integrating variable energy resources, optimizing the use of existing resources, supporting smart cities, and public safety communications to ensure the health, safety and welfare of Americans.” More information regarding the Summit is available here.