Smart grids are topping the agendas of energy ministries across Europe. Global electricity consumption is set to grow by 1,250 TWh or 2% each year until 2030 when it will be more than double today’s levels, according to widely quoted industry data. EU member states have agreed to targets of a 20% cut in greenhouse gas emissions, a 20% increase in the use of renewable energy and a 20% cut in energy consumption through improved energy efficiency by 2020. Achieving these will need smarter grids