Japan struggles to build a new electricity network

Mar 11, 2015
The expansion of solar power to replace nuclear has hit a wall: The capacity of Japan's grid.

Daylight Savings, a thing that exists for no discernable reason

Mar 9, 2015
There's not much evidence that Daylight Savings Time actually cuts down on electricity use.

No electricity in Indonesia, but there's Facebook

Jul 2, 2014
Elizabeth Pisani talks about the modern changes in Indonesia's economy.

Nation's electricity grid gets a test

Nov 12, 2013
The aging grid's main protection against attack is that it's too sprawling and complicated to all go down at once.

No, your phone doesn't use as much electricity as a refrigerator

Aug 23, 2013
Widely reported: your smartphone uses the same amount of electricity as two refrigerators. Why some ideas stick around, true or not.

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With choice comes risk: How to pick the electricity plan that's right for you

Aug 21, 2013
Power companies are starting to steal from the mobile phone playbook, offering free nights and weekends or pre-paid plans. This can save you money, or it can blow you away with higher bills.
Utility workers repair a power line in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Channeling Nikola Tesla's electric currents today

Jul 26, 2013
The inventor has been cast as Thomas Edison's more magical nemesis and contemporary -- and he's currently being celebrated at the New York Hall of Science.

Power grid is tested by heat wave: Will it pass?

Jul 18, 2013
A heat wave covering the Midwest and Northeast is expected to peak today -- and with it, demand for electricity to power air conditioning. People may be asked to conserve, but power grids expect they'll meet demand.