The staff of the MPSC filed a report that details the results of a staff investigation regarding utility smart grid vendor selection. The report provides recommendations to minimize the cost of smart grid technology deployment by exploring different methods of vendor selection, as well as the lessons learned from early adopters. Case studies were provided on:
- Consumers Energy
- Xcel Energy
- Pepco Holdings, Inc.
- Detroit Edison
- Oklahoma Gas & Electric
Not surprisingly, best practices include starting with a pilot and selecting vendors via the RFP process. Additionally, utilities should negotiate vendor contracts to address product failure and business failure.