Abstract: Embodiments of the invention propose volt/VAR optimization that may be time synchronized and automated based on actions invoked at a control system utilizing a smart grid solution that incorporates metering end points which are capable of reporting to a utility the information that is needed by the utility or to another system for making real time decisions on events that may occur at the distribution level. Embodiments of the invention incorporate large numbers of end points (e.g., smart meters) which a utility can use to determine how any event or events it may invoke at the grid level affect its compliance at the end user level.

Abstract: A process for communicating utility-related data over at least one network is described. the process includes: collecting utility-related data at a hub device during a first predetermined period of time; securing the utility-related data at the hub device using digital envelopes during the first predetermined period of time; initiating by the hub device an autonomous wake up process during a second predetermined period of time; sending the secure utility-related data over a first network to a designated server via at least one User Datagram protocol (“UDP”) message during the second predetermined period of time; and receiving an acknowledgement of receipt message of the at least one UDP message from the designated server; wherein the first and second predetermined periods of time typically do not overlap, but may overlap.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for synchronizing meter clocks in both basic residential meters and in advanced and C&I meters with advanced communication modules. The synchronization methods and systems provide easy-to-manage solutions from the head end, without impacting billing data.