Semantic Information Integration for Smart Grid Applications*

The Los Angeles Smart Grid Project aims to use informatics techniques to bring about a quantum leap in the way demand response load optimization is performed in utilities. Semantic information integration, from sources as diverse as Internet-connected smart meters and social networks, is a linchpin to support the advanced analytics and mining algorithms required for this. In association with it, semantic complex event processing system will allow consumer and utility managers to easily specify and enact energy policies continuously. We present the information systems architecture for the project that is under development, and discuss research issues that emerge from having to design a system that supports 1.4 million customers and a rich ecosystem of Smart Grid applications from users, third party vendors, the utility and regulators.