The smart grid is the use of digital technology to modernize the power grid. It employs innovative products and services combined with intelligent monitoring, control, communication, and self-healing technologies to do the following:

• facilitate the connection and operation of generators of all sizes and technologies
• allow consumers to play a part in optimizing the operation of the system
• provide consumers with greater information and supply choices
• significantly reduce the environmental impact of the electricity supply system
• deliver enhanced levels of reliability and security of supply

More than meters and mobility, the smart grid represents a whole new framework for improved management of electric generation, transmission, and distribution. It also presents challenges. As a complex system, the smart grid requires special attention to issues of interoperability, security, and resiliency.

In 2009, the Software Engineering Institute became the steward of the Smart Grid Maturity Model. This new role supplements ongoing modern power grid research associated with smart metering, interoperability standards, and critical infrastructure protection. As a global leader in software and systems engineering and architecture, security best practices, process improvement, and maturity modeling, the SEI is uniquely positioned to take on the challenges of the modern grid.