Kx Systems was selected to provide its kdb+ database to Ontario, Canada’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) to support the retrieval and querying of smart meter data processed by Ontario's meter data management and repository (MDM/R) system. Kx Systems’ relational database management software will be utilized to support MDM/R data retrieval, processing and analysis. In Ontario, the central MDM/R provides a common platform for processing, storing and managing all hourly smart meter data in the province.

First Solar began construction on Phase I of the Barilla Solar Project in Pecos County, Texas. The 22 MW is expected to begin commercial operation in mid-2014. First Solar will build, commission and operate the power plant, and offer the output to customers, including municipal utilities, electric cooperatives, and larger commercial and industrial users.

Siemens and Open Joint Stock Company Fortum signed a long-term service contract for the Nyaganskaya GRES combined cycle power plant in Nyagan, Russia. The power station consists of three combined cycle power units totaling 1,254 MW. The first unit, with a capacity of 420.9 MW, began commercial operation in April 2013. The commercial operation of the second unit began at the end of 2013, and the third unit is currently under construction.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission approved PPL Electric Utilites’ proposed Northeast Pocono Reliability Project, a $335 million project that involves building new electrical substations and a new 230-kV power line running approximately 60 miles. PPL Electric Utilities submitted the project to the PUC in late December 2012, after soliciting public input at 13 community meetings in the project region. The utility is working with various agencies to secure necessary environmental permits. The project is estimated to be completed in 2017.

Georgia Power completed a statewide smart grid improvement project conducted through a multiyear Smart Grid Investment Grant (SGIG) awarded by the Department of Energy (DOE). The $109 million project, which includes $52.5 million in funds from the DOE and $56.5 million from the company, is part of a larger $165 million agreement between Southern Company and the DOE under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Element Power US, owner and developer of the Mill Creek Wind Farm, and KCP&L Greater Missouri Operations have entered into a PPA for a 200 MW wind energy facility to be built in Holt County, Missouri. The 200 MW project, once operational, will be the largest in the state of Missouri. The project currently has approximately 25,000 acres under lease with over 100 landowner partners. Element Power anticipates commencement of construction in Q3 2014, with expected commercial operation achieved by the end of December 2015.