MARION, S.D. (WNAX) – Electric utilities are expanding the use of smart grid technology which consumers can use to better control their use of electricity.

Brad Schardin, Manager of Southeastern Electric based in Marion, says they can see the changes in service.

Schardin says their customers can monitor their usage day to day.

Schardin says the smart grid can lead to fewer outages.

Southeastern has about 15,000 customers in an area from Sioux Falls to Alcester to Parkston and Menno.