Just last month the Obama Administration unveiled their plans for the 21^st century smart grid. We all know that our electric system needs updating. With fears of cyber attacks and rolling blackouts we say we desire to lead the world through the 21^st century. To do this we have to put our old worn out grid to bed and update it so the United Sates can lead the way with technology and security. So the Obama plan - $250 million in loans for smart-grid technology deployment.

This is approximately 80 cents per person living in the United States. Wow! "America cannot build a 21st century economy with a 20th century electricity system. By working with states, industry leaders and the private sector, we can build a clean, smart, national electricity system that will create jobs, reduce energy use and expand renewable energy production," said U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu at this smart grid plan unveiling.

The electric utility grid is the heart of the US economy. Without a reliable and efficient grid Americans cannot expect the economy to rebound. We cannot expect the private sector to dump money into an economy that does not have the infrastructure to support it. As FDR proved many years ago, if you build the infrastructure private business and the economy will flourish.

The administration speaks a lot about “public-private partnerships”, which is code for someone else needs to pay for this. The private sector is already providing $5.5 billion to modernize America’s aging energy infrastructure and provide cleaner and more reliable power. Instead of real money to boost our economy the administration wants paperwork and meetings.

First, there’s the mention of the Gridwise Alliance’s new spin-off, Grid 21, which is all about getting the consumer into the talks about smart grid---helping quell fears, educating them about tools and savings. Second, the president promises that the Department of Energy promises to look at how to get those consumers better data and info. We do not need information, we need good, clean reliable energy.

 Another, rather scary aspect of this plan is the formation of the Renewable Energy Rapid Response Team. This new group is designed to be the go-between for three governmental agencies, "to improve Federal coordination and ensure timely review of the proposed renewable energy projects and transmission lines, to ensure energy can power cities and towns across America...". A US Government agency that will speed things along? It sounds more likely to be another bureaucratic level getting in the way of progress.

I guess our best chance for a real plan would be for the banks and investment houses to request the money. They seem to have a direct line to the White House and access to the checkbook, at least then we would stand a fighting chance to lead the world again.