258 CHAPTER 14 What's Next? FIGURE 14.1 SRSM Smart Metering Project and Google maps covering the World. 1 FIGURE 14.2 SRSM Smart Metering Project and Google maps covering North America. 1 WHAT SHOULD CONSUMERS EXPECT? Consumers have been promised that the smart grid will bring many improvements to their daily lives. Smaller electric bills, less frequent and shorter power outages, and more immediate access to energy usage information are just some of the promises made to consumers. In order to fulfill these promises, several new tech- nologies will be invading consumers' homes and businesses including: · · Smart devices Smart meters