In recent years we have seen the need for the utility company of old to modernize to what's called "the smart grid." Yet the so-called smart grid has a lot of implications for investors to consider when looking to modernize portfolios as well. Areas where I see the most critical need for investment are cybersecurity, advanced energy, and cleanweb technologies that make energy more efficient and resilient. There is also a need for better communication to better educate consumers who are interested in implementing renewables and/or becoming less grid-dependent.
As I wrote in my recent book, "Lessons from Frankenstorm," the next major power distribution may or may not come from weather. That means investors have much to consider beyond sensors and simulation software. I've said for a while that the next Facebook (FB +2.31%) may actually come from the energy world.
