Will Google Reorganize the World's Energy Data?

(MoneyWatch)  Last week we flippantly joked that Google might be of better use in the energy sector if it used its search technology to find more oil, rather than coming up with an energy plan that competes with others', like that of T. Boone Pickens.

But at least one energy blogger, Katie Fehrenbacher of Earth2Tech, thinks she's got a bead on what Google's real interest in energy might be. "Google's mission is to organize the world's information -- be it via search, email, online maps or mobile apps -- but it could someday help you manage your daily energy consumption, too."

Fehrenbacher notes that Google "as part of its recently announced collaboration with GE... is currently looking at designing tools to help consumers understand their energy consumption. Google has also been actively looking at utilities' smart meter projects-- and at using its strong connection with consumers to play a role in consumer energy management."

"Helping consumers, even utilities, manage energy data is a perfect fit for Google. Power grids throughout the world will need to undergo a dramatic buildout and restructuring to accommodate both an increased demand for energy and a switch to renewable power."

Hmm. That makes a lot more sense than Google trying to break into the energy development and delivery business itself.