Chinese utility companies plan to upgrade approximately 300 million standard meters (both commercial and residential), which will allow them to transmit data real-time back to an electrical "Smart Grid," greatly enhancing the efficiency of power transmission.  The smart meter upgrade and the country's conversion to a national smart grid system are key components of China's stimulus package, announced in November of 2008 and valued at four trillion RMB (US$586 million).

According to estimates provided by the China Electricity Council ("CEC"), the national Smart Meter roll-out will require 21 billion RMB (US$3.1 billion) in 2011, up from 16 billion RMB in 2010 and 12 billion in 2009.  Total expenditures budgeted for the upgrade of the country's Smart Grid will reach 280 billion RMB (US$40 billion) in 2011 (up from 220 billion RMB in 2010 and 180 billion in 2009).  Both Cisco and GE have announced new plans to pursue opportunities in these roll-outs in China.