3 ms·

What innovation could be done for basic utilities? I understand your concern and sympathize with it. But it seems like there is a difference. Everyone wants fas

What innovation could be done for basic utilities? I understand your concern and sympathize with it. But it seems like there is a difference. Everyone wants faster more reliable internet (Personally I'm more concerned about reliability at peak times at this point; >10mbps is plenty otherwise). But when is the last time you heard someone complain about the reliability of their power/water/sewage? Maybe I'm spoiled, but I haven't noticed systemic negligence with those utilities.

_greim_ 12y ago
The electrical grid is (supposedly) badly in need of an overhaul. I don't know if this is correlated to electrical being a utility however.
- crazy1van 12y ago
  Why would power companies upgrade? Their monopoly status has taken away all financial incentive to improve things. And their monopoly status is given by the federal government. That makes them far more interested in keeping the government happy instead of keeping me, the consumer, happy.
jameshart 12y ago
AC 2.0: now running at 120Hz! That's TWICE AS FAST as your grandfather's AC. And delivered at a selection of voltages to suit your needs - from a new 30V option for price-conscious consumers, right up to 120V to meet the needs of even the most demanding family.* Worried about replacing all your appliances? Don't be! We can supply all the latest AC 2.0 devices from top manufacturers for a low initial price, when you sign up for a three year contract. * Full voltage available for first 2kWh every month only. Fair wattage policy applies.
crazy1van 12y ago
> What innovation could be done for basic utilities? I think even asking that question leads us down the wrong path. If 15 years ago, the "experts" had gotten together to brainstorm about new ways to communicate, we never would have gotten anything as disruptive as our current social networks. Instead let new people enter the market and let's see what we get.

_greim_ 12y ago

The electrical grid is (supposedly) badly in need of an overhaul. I don't know if this is correlated to electrical being a utility however.

crazy1van 12y ago
Why would power companies upgrade? Their monopoly status has taken away all financial incentive to improve things. And their monopoly status is given by the federal government. That makes them far more interested in keeping the government happy instead of keeping me, the consumer, happy.

jameshart 12y ago

AC 2.0: now running at 120Hz! That's TWICE AS FAST as your grandfather's AC. And delivered at a selection of voltages to suit your needs - from a new 30V option for price-conscious consumers, right up to 120V to meet the needs of even the most demanding family.* Worried about replacing all your appliances? Don't be! We can supply all the latest AC 2.0 devices from top manufacturers for a low initial price, when you sign up for a three year contract. * Full voltage available for first 2kWh every month only. Fair wattage policy applies.

crazy1van 12y ago

> What innovation could be done for basic utilities? I think even asking that question leads us down the wrong path. If 15 years ago, the "experts" had gotten together to brainstorm about new ways to communicate, we never would have gotten anything as disruptive as our current social networks. Instead let new people enter the market and let's see what we get.