Report of the 'Smart grids' WG. Synthesis

As France is committed in a significant improvement of energy efficiency, a significant reduction of its greenhouse gas emissions, and a significant increase of its renewable energy share, this synthesis addresses how to develop a better use of electric power by means of a smarter power system. It outlines challenges related to energy and climate, recalls EU commitments, discusses present and necessary evolutions of the power production and consumption system, proposes a benchmark of smart grids (the smart grid concept, state of the art in different parts of the world), and discusses economic, technological, behavioural and regulatory brakes on smart grid development. Recommendations are then formulated