Local Jobs to Come for "Smart Grid" Technology

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By Lena Vargas

Summary

Senator Maria Cantwell came to Richland to announce plans for 500 new jobs in Washington, 40 which would be in the Tri-Cities.

Story Published: Aug 16, 2010 at 5:01 PM PST

RICHLAND -- A new project in the works would save electricity, save money, and create 500 jobs across Washington state. KEPR Action News found out that could mean 40 in our area alone.

Senator Maria Cantwell made the announcement in Richland. This will be part of about $90 million in stimulus money that utility companies will match, to focus on "smart grid" technology. This includes special meters to help manage your energy use, and save money. But it won't pay for everything.

KEPR asked Sen. Cantwell, "Do you anticipate having to seek more money for this project?" She replied, "I don't know. I think the issue is competitiveness as a country, and if we thought there was a way to help expedite this to save costs overall, we might look at that."

A trial will be done on 60,000 homes. Most will be outside of the Tri-Cities.