Inspired by the Bluetooth initiative that transformed wireless connectivity, the Mercury project aims to revolutionize the integration of low-carbon technologies into the smart grid. Bringing together major players from the global energy sector, this consortium seeks to establish standards and practices to ensure seamless communication of devices such as electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps, and solar panels. A decisive step towards accelerating electrification and achieving a sustainable energy future.
The Mercury project, led by EPRI, was launched to accelerate the integration of low-carbon technologies into the smart grid. Inspired by Ericsson’s role in developing Bluetooth connectivity standards, this project aims to establish guidelines for low-carbon devices like electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps, solar panels, smart thermostats, and residential batteries to work harmoniously with the grid.
This project also seeks to enhance the resilience and efficiency of electrical grids through these technologies, thus supporting the energy transition. The goal is to develop universal standards that will facilitate rapid electrification and a transition to a sustainable energy future.
The Mercury consortium includes over two dozen founding members from the global energy sector, with members such as AusGrid, Con Edison, and Kraken. Collaboration is essential for these technologies to integrate into our energy system, thus improving its availability and accessibility.
In 2023, consumers invested 184 billion dollars in low-carbon technologies, and over 200 million of these devices are expected to be integrated into the grid by 2030, highlighting the urgency of such initiatives.
launch of the Mercury initiative for a sustainable future
The Mercury project, led by EPRI, is launched to accelerate the integration of low-carbon technologies into the smart electric grid. Kraken, inspired by Ericsson’s example in the development of Bluetooth standards, aims to establish guidelines and best practices that allow low-carbon devices to operate smoothly with the grid. The technologies involved include electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps, solar panels, smart thermostats, and residential batteries. With cross-platform integration, consumer confidence in this energy transition should strengthen.
objectives and members of the Mercury consortium
The Mercury consortium brings together over two dozen members from the global energy industry and remains open to other interested organizations. The utilities involved include AusGrid, Con Edison, CPS Energy, E.ON Next, and EDF Energy, among others. On the manufacturing side, there are Easee, Enphase Energy, and Hypervault, to name just a few. These diverse players are working together to establish universal standards, comparable to Bluetooth, for low-carbon technologies. The aim is to accelerate electrification and build a sustainable energy future. In 2023, consumers invested 184 billion dollars in these technologies, and by 2030, over 200 million devices of this type are expected to be integrated into the grid.
a promising portfolio of technologies
Amir Orad, CEO of Kraken, emphasizes the importance of the partners who have joined the project, which reflects the seriousness of the mission. This collaboration calls on innovators from around the world to accelerate the energy transition. Smart technologies and devices are already making our lives wonderful; therefore, it is essential that they connect to enhance our energy system, making it more accessible and affordable. The ability of these technologies to integrate seamlessly and communicate effectively is crucial for a modern energy system. By developing better integration practices, we could increase the use of low-carbon energy, build a more sustainable future and accelerate the pace towards net-zero emissions by mid-century.
