Korea Drives Smart Grid Development

The Korea Smart Grid Association is launching a national program to encourage and support the creation of smart grid patents that meet international standards. Energy Korea reported that the organization is supporting companies, universities and research institutions that want international patents.

The association is taking the lead in developing technologies and standards that can be baked into future patents. The association also has a special emphasis on strengthening the global competitiveness of innovative small and mid-sized businesses, which would not normally have the sophistication necessary to deal with international patent issues. It is also emphasizing technologies that can become de facto standards or “platforms” that “can enjoy both market power and monopolistic strength.”