For the last five years or so, I have made digital networks my prime research focus. For the most part, this has concentrated on IT networks as with PCs and servers, and the network interfaces and network devices that enable it. I will outline how to think about networks as they collide with energy use and efficiency, and report on the several projects we have underway in this area. Networks have a unique relationship to industry standards and I will outline some of the challenges and opportunities this brings. In addition, we have the looming prospect of the networking of many non-electronic loads in buildings (particularly lighting and climate control) and attempts to use the "smart grid" to enable utilities to reach through the meter into individual device control. I will outline my views of how this topic should be approached so that we avoid networking causing large increases in energy use, and instead allow it so be a way to significantly reduce consumption. For more information about this seminar, please contact: JoAnne Lambert 510.486.4835, or send e-mail to JMLambert[at]lbl.gov