HECO gets piece of $3.4 billion to modernize grid
HAWAII - President Barack Obama announced $3.4 billion in funding for projects to modernize the nation’s electricity grid — the largest group of economic stimulus awards ever made in one day.
The government funds will be matched by more than $4.7 billion in private-sector investments. The awards went to 100 companies, utilities, manufacturers and cities across the nation. They included $5,347,598 to Hawaiian Electric Co. to upgrade its electrical grid.
The largest chunk of the government funding — $2 billion — went to projects that will integrate different “smart grid” components, such as smart meters and automated substations, into one system. Another $1 billion was directed to projects that expand consumer access to smart meters and other systems that will enable them to run appliances and equipment when electric rates are the lowest.
About $400 million will go to projects that will reduce the amount of power that is wasted in its journey from the power plant to the end user.
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Crowds plug into electric vehicle event in Regina
REGINA - Crowds in Regina were revved up with excitement for electric cars this weekend.
On Saturday, Electric Mobility Canada hosted the 3rd annual national drive electric week event in the Queen City.
"It's something that's going on around the world right now, this week," said James Dennis, electric car enthusiast and event organizer. "It's to help bring awareness to electric vehicles, not only for a form of transportation but also to help clean up the environment."
This Volkswagon Beetle was redone to function as an electric vehicle.
Dennis said a common misconception is electric cars are not functional during Saskatchewan winters.
"The thing people need to understand is these…