Grid-Interop (News - Alert), an industry alliance created to promote Smart Grid interoperability standards, is in its fifth year. Grid-Interop's first annual Plug-In is scheduled to take place between Dec. 5 and 8, 2011, in Phoenix, Ariz.

Organized by the UCA International Users Group, Electric Power Research Institute, and EnerNex, Plug-In will highlight the progress of Smart Grid interoperability through the demonstration of real-world technology implementations – from multiple vendors and organizations.

In a press release, the event organizers informed that the show will be attended by renowned Smart Grid companies. The attendees are expected to experience live demonstrations of end-to-end applications of Smart Grid interoperability – from the utility's back office to the homeowner's thermostat.

Interoperability refers to the capability of different systems and devices to communicate and operate effectively with one another. Fully interoperable devices are often described as having “plug-and-play” characteristics.

Grid-Interop is focused on rapid development and implementation of Smart Grid interoperability standards through industry-wide collaboration. Grid-Interop is held in partnership with GWAC, SGIP, the Department of Energy (DOE), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

“The standards-based approach to simplify the integration of devices and systems between multiple vendors through interoperability is not only feasible, but it's supported by companies in a competitive marketplace. What you'll see at Plug-In is a success story born of the diligent and collaborative efforts from leading standards experts and integrators – a showcase of the progress taking place at Grid-Interop,” Steve Widergren, plenary chair of the Smart Grid Interoperability Panel (SGIP), and principal engineer at the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory explained in a statement.

Last month TMCnet reported that KEMA, a global leading authority in energy consulting, testing, and certification, officially opened its Smart Grid Interop Lab in Erlanger, Kentucky, United States. The new lab is a dynamic testing center for smart grid technologies.

It is designed to simulate real-world conditions and test end-to-end functionality of smart grid elements, such as in-home displays, electric vehicle charging, smart meters, and customer information portals. The lab plays an important role in the deployment of smart grids.