Abstract: A system for electric power demand monitoring and control includes one or more data distribution networks interconnecting network interfaces or intelligent utility units located at customer sites with a host computer located in the utility company offices. A network within the site interconnects each intelligent utility unit or network interface with power consuming units for providing data on power usage and power control. A data distribution network interconnects the plurality of intelligent utility units or network interfaces to the host computer as a head end unit, the data distribution network providing downstream communication channels from the host computer to the plurality of intelligent utility units and network interfaces, and upstream communication channels from the plurality of intelligent utility units and network interfaces to the host computer. The communication channels are organized as frequency division multiplex channels in a frequency spectrum.