Learning from adopters: Critical factors for achieving smart grid value

Smart grid represents a perfect example of using green technologies to realize economic, societal and environmental sustainability. Yet outcomes from smart grid use can be different, and there lacks an adequate understanding of what factors are critical for utilities to achieve maximum value from smart grid. We use multiple case studies comparing utilities with different sizes, ownership forms, state regulatory environments, and market structures to identify factors influencing smart grid value achievement. We find on-going top management support, active project management and change management, adequate IT capabilities, good stakeholder relationships and continuing grid-improving efforts are critical factors. We also find that size and ownership forms do not moderate utilities' performance but differences in state regulatory environments shape how much value utilities can gain from smart grid.