Louisiana will receive over $45.5 million for energy grid updates of the $3.4 billion in the Recovery Act as part of the largest single energy grid modernization investment in U.S. history. The efforts will create a more reliable electric system and strengthen pathways for the state to buy the cleanest and most economical power available.
As part of the appropriation, Entergy New Orleans Inc. will receive $5 million to install more than 11,000 residential smart meters and in-home display devices to reduce energy use and cost for low-income families.
Entergy Services Inc. will get $4.6 million to build a foundation for increased grid monitoring in New Orleans, install 18 phasor measurement units, and train grid operators and engineers on phasor technology. Phasors help keep the grid stable when the power goes out.
Cleco Power LLC, which provides power in St. Tammany Parish, will receive $20 million to install a smart metering network for all of the utility's customers to enable customer interaction and distribution automation.