Intel plans to use the upcoming mad-powerful WiMax standard as a way to smarten the electric grid.  These things are dubbed “smart-grids“, and they promise to bring the micro-managing ability of computers to all parts of the grid.  The grid currently has complicated monitoring nodes at the sources of power and main transmission centers.

The smart grid is a significant expansion and improvement that many liken to the internet for electricity.  It will lower the chance of blackouts and brownouts and help power plants operate at peak efficiency.