Kansas-based utility to receive 'smart grid' funds
The Topeka-based utility said it received notice from the U.S. Department of Energy that it was selected to receive part of $3.4 billion in stimulus funds for so-called "smart grid" projects. Those projects are aimed at bringing energy systems into the digital age.
Westar says the department hasn't determined how much it will receive but said it was eligible for more than $19 million. Westar had sought $20 million of the project's almost $40 million price tag.
The project will provide electric customers in Lawrence with programmable thermostats that they can monitor and adjust online, helping reduce their power consumption and helping Westar deal with periods of peak energy demand.
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Elon Musk could help rebuild Puerto Rico with solar-powered electricity grid
WASHINGTON - Puerto Rico’s governor Ricardo Rossello has said that he will speak to Elon Musk after the Tesla inventor said his innovative solar power systems could be used to restore electricity on the island.
Mr Musk was mentioned in a tweet, referencing an article discussing ways to restore Puerto Rico’s power grid, which was knocked out by Hurricane Maria on September 20.
Restoring the ageing and already-weakened network has proved slow: as of Friday 90 per cent of the island remained without power. The island’s electricity company was declared bankrupt in July.
Mr Musk was asked: “Could @ElonMusk go in and rebuild #PuertoRico’s…
