Utility companies worldwide doubled their spending on smart grids in 2012 according to a study by ABI Research’s Smart Grids and Smart Cities Research Service.
In 2012 companies spent US$23.68 billion on transmission and distribution capabilities to improve core networks and maximise the benefits of advanced metering infrastructure deployments.
Smart grid spending in 2012 was up 47.1% from $16.10 billion in 2011 as remaining government stimulus funds were spent in the United States and utilities around the world increased their own investments. The study also suggested smart grid investments are still in their infancy and spending will continue to grow over the next five years to reach US$80.8 billion during 2018.