The New York Power Authority is researching whether or not it is feasible to use cloud computing for real-time monitoring of utility power systems.

NYPA official say the study is "in an effort to craft a network that is more efficient and less expensive to run."

NYPA will partner with Cornell University and Washington State University to study using the cloud rather than servers and hard-wired communications.

If deemed practical, cloud computing would be considerably less expensive than each utility building its own data and control network, according to a news release from the power authority.

"Continued availability of data and control is critical in order for operators to respond to complex contingencies, especially when they affect wide areas of the grid such as the 2003 Northeastern U.S. blackout," the release says. "Availability of data will also enable utilities to analyze past events, be notified of equipment service changes, monitor remote events and have the scalability needed to react if there was an attack by nation-state adversaries."