Traditional inverters gather power from all or most of the panels in an installation and use transformers, capacitors and switches to change it from direct current to alternating current.

FORBES: Inverters: Solar's Next Star?

But most of the projects that are receiving grants involve the installation of what are known as smart meters -- devices that will have a direct benefit for consumers who want to save money on their electric bills.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Explains the Smart Grid and Economic Recovery | The White House

It's replacing a bridge built when Franklin Roosevelt was president on what the Missouri Department of Transportation says is the most direct link between Missouri's capitol, Jefferson City, and a large U.S. Army installation, Fort Leonard Wood.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS