Austin Energy is using new technology to monitor energy use more carefully, in the hopes of developing a 'smart energy network'.
"Among its goals, the Center for the Commercialization of Electric Technology hopes to couple new digital meters like these with cutting-edge communication and information technology to give customers real-time information about energy use. In advanced phases they could be used to remotely control air-conditioning settings or activate 'smart' appliances. Austin Energy has installed more than 130,000 digital meters as part of its Multifamily Partnership Program...The meters automatically take readings and communicate through radio waves, allowing power to remain on, saving the utility a trip each time a tenant moves in or out. AE is evaluating whether to install the meters in other homes and businesses. One day they could all be linked to a 'smart energy network.'"
FULL STORY: Making the Energy Grid Smarter

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

San Francisco's School District Spent $105M To Build Affordable Housing for Teachers — And That's Just the Beginning
SFUSD joins a growing list of school districts using their land holdings to address housing affordability challenges faced by their own employees.

The Tiny, Adorable $7,000 Car Turning Japan Onto EVs
The single seat Mibot charges from a regular plug as quickly as an iPad, and is about half the price of an average EV.

Seattle's Plan for Adopting Driverless Cars
Equity, safety, accessibility and affordability are front of mind as the city prepares for robotaxis and other autonomous vehicles.

As Trump Phases Out FEMA, Is It Time to Flee the Floodplains?
With less federal funding available for disaster relief efforts, the need to relocate at-risk communities is more urgent than ever.

With Protected Lanes, 460% More People Commute by Bike
For those needing more ammo, more data proving what we already knew is here.
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