Power/energy: Satellite control of electric power distribution: A single satellite can manage loads, automate distribution, and read all power meters from coast to coast

A single satellite could cycle electric water heaters on and off in homes and factories, activate switchgear in power distribution stations, and even read electric meters - all over the United States. These and other forms of load and operations management could be commonplace in five years, if only a fraction of the country's 2000 utilities cooperated in sponsoring the satellite. Satellite monitoring and control of the U.S. electrical distribution network would be both effective and economical.