What does it mean to be 'smart' as defined by modern standards? Centuries ago, it was smart to pull a cart by or ride atop a horse. Today, that's considered more a luxury or novelty experience. Horse-drawn locomotion is no comparison to the power of steam, electricity, etc.

However, through time and observation of by-products, humanity sought other ways to unite the need for transportation with increased kindness to animals and maintenance of the earth's resources and atmosphere.

The Gangnam district of Seoul, South Korea is befitting for envisioning a future with a smarter application of power at hand, with better methods of leveraging needed resources, redefining what it means to be 'smart.'

What is 'Smart'?

'Smart' is a term given to gadgets of the 20th and 21st century that leverage software rather than hardware. That way, your home's thermostat may 'know' to shutoff or adjust its temperature rather than necessitate human contact – that's smart evolution.

Laptop computers know when to activate fans, houses know when to alert police and fire departments, and in parts of South Korea, electric grids know how to enact efficient, safe, and economical use of provided resources.

Gangnam Style

The Gangnam district, internationally renowned due to a pop song, has a number of today's leading scientists and ecologists hip to the district's electricity operations and related grid functions.

A number of major points make Gangnam's grid something to marvel at:

+ Power platforms are monitored centrally; the amount of usage is observed in real time, with failures addressed and repairs enacted instantly.

+ Commercial, personal, and industrial entities tailor engagement and use, saving money as well as resources.

+ Main grids allocate energy and observe the number of machines connected; the main system is never overwhelmed or a given machine derailed of system resources.

Smart grid technology offers a lot of wondrous sentiments regarding home improvement and interaction, enabling owners to summons electrical resources to apropos products in real time for optimal budgeting.

Smart Integration

Unfortunately, when it comes to building nations and optimizing present situations given particular economic lots, governments must meditate on whether implementing 'smart' technology is such a bright idea.

Of course, nations and science continue to observe unique innovations, such as what is taking place in the Gangnam district of South Korea, but integration may or may not be 'smart' depending on present situations.

For example, particular electricity grids here in the UK, used for over 50 years, initially required coal, then evolving to nuclear and gas-generated power. In other areas, councils leverage wind power for a gentler reliance on Earth. Some observe the evolution hosting continuous improvement, yet others, noting the implementations of the Koreans, hardly think the evolution to date has been 'smart.'

Online Efficiencies

Most suppliers now provide web portals, allowing consumers to monitor and adjust personal accounts anytime, reducing the number of service requests and improving customer service. Customers interested in comparing energy tariffs can seek related information at from websites such as npower.

The US Approach to 'Smart' Energy

The introduction of 'smart' home elements is not altogether strange on American soil. US government sites host a number of studies and data related to smart grids and subsequent integration.

For example, the US Department of Energy has invested more than $7 billion toward smart grid projects around the nation. In Maine, according to government data, meter cost operations decreased by 80% with annual savings equalling over $6 million.

If 'smart' integration is working in relation to large-scale projects, more homeowners may follow suit. For instance, are solar panels worth it? For many, it's a well-greeted option to measure whether making the switch saves money. Moreover, projections of savings help align good intentions with actual, bottom-line savings.

Economy of Scale

To date, Smart Grids are not employed at scale. Successes, as found in South Korea and Maine, will influence governments and municipalities regarding large-scale adoption, or cultivate more dialogue on the possibility at the very least.

A pop song drew the world's attention to the Gangnam district years ago. Now, it's use of smart grids to channel energy raise brows. If it will raise increased interest of governments and inspire more smart grids remains to be seen.

Carol Riaz loves her career researching energy concerns and innovative solutions. With a keen eye on renewable energy sources, she greatly enjoys blogging about her research and insights into the future of energy in the modern world.