It described the following characteristics of the smart grid:

·         Increased use of digital information and controls technology to improve reliability, security and efficiency of the electric grid

·         Dynamic optimization of grid operations and resources, with full cyber-security

·         Deployment and integration of distributed resources and generation, including renewable resources

·         Development and incorporation of demand response, demand-side resources and energy-efficiency resources

·         Deployment of "smart" technologies (real-time, automated, interactive technologies that optimize the physical operation of appliances and consumer devices) for metering, communications concerning grid operations and status, and distribution automation

·         Integration of ‘‘smart’’ appliances and consumer devices

·         Deployment and integration of advanced electricity storage and peak-shaving technologies, including plug-in electric and hybrid electric vehicles, and thermal-storage air conditioning

·         Provision to consumers of timely information and control options

·         Development of standards for communication and interoperability of appliances and equipment connected to the electric grid, including the infrastructure serving the grid

·         Identification and lowering of unreasonable or unnecessary barriers to adoption of smart grid technologies, practices and services.