Saft, a designer and manufacturer of industrial batteries, was selected by Green Charge Networks to support its role in a $92 million smart grid demonstration project. The project is being led by New York's Consolidated Edison,

Green Charge Networks is involved in in smart grid, and energy storage and management technology, with a particular expertise in electric vehicle charging.

Con Edison initiated the multi-year demonstration project in 2010 after receiving a Department of Energy award to identify, develop and test new technologies within the electric delivery system that will help build a smarter, more efficient grid, including the integration of smart grid architecture and measuring the effects of widespread electric vehicle adoption on the electric grid.

GCN's scope of work includes the installation and operation of a network of smart storage and generation units in the distribution grid that communicate directly with Con Edison.

Site selections include several convenience stores as well as other channels of business including car rental locations, hotels and parking garages all in the New York City area.

Saft will be supplying energy storage systems totaling close to 1 MWh, using the Synerion 24M high-energy lithium-ion batteries. Installation is slated to begin in March 2012.

A smart grid essentially integrates information and communication technologies into electricity generation, delivery and consumption. In turn, this process makes systems cleaner, safer, more reliable and more efficient. Ultimately, smart grid technologies will allow consumers to use energy more efficiently, support alternative energy sources, enable widespread adoption of electric vehicles, as well as enhance reliability across various platforms, including medical facilities, transportation systems, financial institutions and media centers.