The activities of CEERI are interdisciplinary. CEERI’s main focus is identifying and implementing cost-effective measures that reduce operating costs, and environmental impacts upon deployment of sustainable technologies and applications related to energy and water. 

Optimizing energy and water resources requires a thorough understanding of current resource usage.  That data can then be used by automated systems to affect changes at the system level.  The data can be also used in the learning stages of machines and communities and lead to a common social contract among all stakeholders. 

'Energy efficiency is one of the easiest and most cost effective ways to combat climate change, clean the air we breathe, improve the competitiveness of our businesses and reduce energy costs for consumers.'
– US DOE

The smart grid is envisioned as a renovated electrical grid system that uses information and communication technologies to collect relevant and automated data, such as consumption, distribution, and generation, to improve the efficiency, reliability, economics, sustainability of production, and distribution of electric power and water.  A smart grid uses automated intelligent and remote controls with two-way communication technology between customers/consumers and power companies.  It increases grid efficiency and reliability through system self-monitoring and feedback.  

The process involves installing smart sensors and meters on production, transmission, and distribution systems in addition to access points that enable granular near real-time data about the current power production and consumption. Dynamic pricing models, risk assessments, and machine learning techniques will optimize the use of distributed energy resources and their integration with conventional power generators.  There is a dire need for transformational changes to be conducted on the education, innovation, community, and business fronts.