Demand response (DR) has become an important part of smart grid, mainly for modulating load curve, emergency treatment, balancing the demand and supply of power system. The features of smart grid-self healing and interactive-give the new meaning to DR. In smart grid, the promotion strategies of ISO/RTO in energy and auxiliary service markets implement DR programs in the project of auxiliary services and can reduce energy consumption. This paper summarizes the global related researches and practices, including the classification, progress of each subclass, the future development potential and DR program outlook in China, and puts forward the following two ideas: 1) The DR for single market cannot satisfy the needs of smart grid, advanced measurement and remote sensing technologies shall be made to implement the DR programs combining with multiple markets; 2) The service agency of DR on transmission and distribution shall be conducted and supervised by the government departments.
