Smart Grid Privacy Workshop - January 31, 2012
January 31, 2012 11:26 AM
Background
As smart grid deployments have increased throughout the U.S., concerns regarding consumer access and privacy related to consumer energy consumption data has become an increasingly important issue. In response to concerns, a multitude of activities are underway, including state commission proceedings implementing privacy principles and the development of potential models by federal agencies and private enterprises. Through these efforts, significant consensus appears to have been reached on fundamental issues, such as the need to protect individually identifiable information and for informed consumer consent. While all of these efforts are valuable, a patchwork of varying legal requirements can create uncertainty and unnecessary complexity for both industry stakeholders and consumers. Privacy and security protections are fundamental issues and must be addressed. Consumers must feel secure that their data will be protected and treated responsibly in order for them to confidently use the services and products that will arise with increased grid intelligence. Yet, overly restrictive regimes may stifle innovation. Therefore, a National Energy Data Privacy Strategy that harmonizes efforts and provides clarity and direction will help reduce uncertainty, protect consumers and unleash innovation.
Purpose
- To facilitate a dialog among key industry stakeholders, including utility personnel, consumer advocates, and third party vendors and carriers regarding consumer electricity data access and privacy.
- To identify key issues, ongoing activities, and specific areas of disagreement.
- To determine if a national privacy strategy could help coordinate efforts and provide leadership.
- To identify specific actions or approaches, including privacy protection regimes used in other industries, which could be part of a national strategy to resolve key priority issues.