Sorry, let me clarify. SmartGrid is the energy transmission system (and in the US at least not run by the gov't). From a critical infrastructure perspective the gov't is subsidizing innovatipn into making tge grid more reliable, etc. It does not interface with your home any more than your exusting meter does...
SmartHome is personal energy management, and connected devices - smart appliances, etc. Seperate and distinct from SmartGrid.
I used to work for a company that ran the trasmission system - the details on how the grid works is mind-bogglingly complex 
Bob
Well Bob, I have to disagree. Portions of SmartGrid may be needed to upgrade and protect the deteriorating current power grid, but to think that SmartGrid will not be able to control appliances indicate you do not understand where the govenment intends SG to go.
Directly from the DoE:
"Whirlpool, the world’s largest manufacturer and
marketer of major home appliances, has
announced that it plans to make all of its
electronically controlled appliances Smart Grid
compatible by 2015."
"GE’s smart appliances – or demand-response
appliances – include a refrigerator, range,
microwave, dishwasher and washer and dryer.
Currently running as a pilot program, these
appliances receive a signal from the utility
company’s smart meter, which alerts the
appliances – and the participants – when
peak electrical usage and rates are in effect."
You might think the government isn't running SmartGrid [today], but go to the DoE web site and do some heavy duty drill downs of the six books describing the SmartGrid plan. Consumer appliance control, dynamic hour by hour kWh pricing, electric vehicles in every garage, etc. etc. etc. are all part of the plan. They will probably have control of my toilet also. I just wish I could redirect the output.
http://www.oe.energy.gov/SmartGridIntroduction.htm
