Grant signing in New Delhi

New Delhi, India --- (METERING.COM) --- December 22, 2010 - The Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) has been awarded a grant from the United Sates Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to support a smart grid feasibility study.

The $453,350 study will help to develop the requirements and specifications for a smart grid implementation plan that will enable the integration of smart meters and automated meter reading into BESCOM's distribution system. Ultimately, this program will advance BESCOM's efforts to meet the challenge of growing demand for energy from its diverse customer base.

“First, this assistance from USTDA supports BESCOM in its unwavering commitment to reach the highest level of customer service delivery,” said BESCOM general manager B N Sathyaprema Kumar. “At the same time, the project will assist India in meeting its energy efficiency goals, an issue of critical importance to India energy security.”

This project also responds to the joint commitment made by President Obama and Prime Minister Singh in late 2009 to greatly expand energy efficiency and clean energy cooperation through the Partnership to Advance Clean Energy (PACE). This initiative encourages joint efforts to accelerate deployment of efficiency and clean energy applications and smart grid development.

“Through the grant, India will improve its ability to streamline electricity demand,” added Blair Hall, Minister Counselor for Economics, Environment, Science & Technology Affairs.

The opportunity to conduct the USTDA-funded feasibility study will be competed on the Federal Business Opportunities (FBO) website. BESCOM will select the U.S. contractor that will complete the technical assistance.