Category: smart-grid-technology

Components of Smart Grid Smart grids have made a significant change in how electricity is generated, transmitted, distributed, and utilized. This could be possible only due to the numerous components and technologies that work behind a smart grid. Smart grids use advanced and Internet enabled components to perform the delivery of electricity to the consumers. Typically, a smart grid consists of a large number of components. In this chapter, we will explain in detail some of the major components of a smart grid along with their functions and benefits. Smart Meters Smart meters are the most common and key components of smart grid. The primary function of smart meters is to record the utilization of electricity and transfer the data to the utility companies in real-time. Smart meters are empowered through internet and digital communication capabilities. Hence, they can provide bidirectional communication between utility companies and consumers. Benefits of Smart Meters The use of smart meters in smart grids results in the following benefits − Real-time monitoring of energy utilization Eliminate the need of manual readings Reduced errors and disputes in billing process Improved service, etc. Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) AMI is another important component of smart grid. It is a collection of various elements and technologies like smart meters, sensors, digital communication channels, and data management systems. The primary function of AMI is to collect, store, and analyze the data received from smart meters and sensors. Benefits of AMI The use of advanced metering infrastructure in smart grid offers the following key advantages − Remote and automated meter reading Reduced errors and operational cost Remote monitoring and control of the grid operations Quick response to power outages, etc. Distribution Automation System The distribution automation system uses a variety of sensors, controls, and software to continuously monitor the electricity distribution network and manage the grid operations automatically. It reduces the duration of power outages through real-time monitoring and automatic operation of the distribution network. Benefits of Distribution Automation System Listed below are some of the key benefits of using distribution automation system in a smart grid − Rapid fault detection and isolation Reduced power outages duration Improved efficiency and reliability of electricity distribution Optimized operation of electricity distribution network Enhanced load management and reduced risk of overloading of network, etc. Renewable Energy Resources Renewable energy resources like solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, etc. are the core components of smart grid. These energy resources make the concept of decentralized power generation practical. The renewable energy sources are integrated into the smart grid to balance the supply and demand to ensure a stable power supply and reduce the strain on the main power generating stations. Benefits of Renewable Energy Resources Here are some key benefits of integrating renewable energy resources into the smart grid − Manage the variability of energy source Improve the stability of the power supply Balance the supply and demand Decentralized power generation Reduced environmental impacts Reduced dependence on fossil fuels and conventional energy resources Provide a sustainable energy system, etc. Energy Storage Systems In smart grid, energy storage systems like batteries and other technologies are used to store electricity during low demand periods and supply it to consumers during high demand periods. These systems are essential for balancing the supply and demand and creating a reliable energy system. Benefits of Energy Storage Systems The following are some key benefits of energy storage systems in a smart grid − Reduced strain on main power plants during peak demand period Availability of backup power sources during power outages Improved energy efficiency by reducing the energy wastage Demand Response and Load Management System In smart grid, the main function of the demand response and load management system is to involve consumers in the grid operations and motivate them to reduce the electricity consumption or shift their usage during high demand periods. Benefits of Demand Response and Load Management System The use of demand response and load management system in a smart grid offers the following advantages − Effectively balance the supply and demand Active participation of consumers in demand response programs Energy cost reduction Improved grid stability and reliability Digital Communication Networks Digital communication networks are one of the core components of smart grid. The primary function of digital communication networks in smart grid is to transfer real-time data among various grid components like smart meters, sensors, and data centers. In these communication networks, various advanced technologies like fiber optics, wireless, or broadband are used. Benefits of Digital Communication Networks Here are some of the key benefits of using digital communication networks in a smart grid − Allows real-time monitoring of the grid operations Rapid response to grid related issues Enhanced protection against physical and cyber threats Conclusion In this chapter, we explained the functions and benefits of some of the important components of a smart grid. All these components play a vital in transforming an ordinary electric grid into a smart grid. The main function of all the above discussed components is to create a reliable, efficient, sustainable, and resilient grid for power delivery. A smart grid can address the major issues of an ordinary electric grid by using all these smart components and technology. Learning working make money

Evolution of Electric Grid If we observe the electric grid from its day of first establishment to today, we can see that the electric grid has undergone widespread changes and transformations. These changes are continued to obtain a more reliable version of the electric grid. For a better understanding, we can divide this evolution of electric grid in multiple phases, where each phase has its own technological advancements and transformations in the electric grid. Read this chapter to get an understanding of how Electric Grids evolved over the course of time. Defining Evolution of Electric Grid The evolution of electric grid encompasses all the technological changes and advancements in the electrical power system from its inception till date. Basically, the evolution of electric grid is a continuous process in which widespread changes take place in technology, infrastructure, regulation, and management activities to enhance the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electric power. Let us see how this evolution has taken place from its day of inception. Evolution of Electric Grid The different phases of evolution of electric grid are explained below. Phase I: Early Development The major highlights of the early evolution of electric grid during its first phase are given below − The early development of Electric Grids took place between 1880s and 1930s. The concept of electric power and its supply system began with the invention of electric light bulb by Thomas Edison and the development of DC power system in the years of 1880s. In 1882, Thomas Edison established the first power plant in New York City for supply DC power to homes and business for lighting. After that Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse introduced the concept of alternating current (AC) power in the year of 1891. They also shown the technical benefits of AC power for transmission over long distances as compared to DC power. In the period of 1900s to 1930s, a rapid expansion of electric grid occurred with the establishment of large AC power plants and long-distance transmission lines. Phase II: Mid-20th Century The major points from the mid-20th century evolution of electric grid are highlighted below − During the period 1940s to 1950s, the utility companies expanded their electric grid infrastructure for widespread electrification and meet the energy demand. In 1950s, the concept of electricity generation from nuclear energy was introduced. This gave a new path for electricity generation at a large scale. New electric grid technologies like high-voltage power transmission were developed in the period of 1960s to 1970s. Also, in this period, more efficient power generation methods were developed. All these advancements resulted in increased capacity and improved reliability of the electric grid. In the years of 1970s, the oil crisis and environmental concerns came into picture. Because of all these issues, the energy sector has shifted towards new and diversified energy resources to ensure sustainability. Phase III: Late 20th Century The key points of this phase of evolution of electric grid are explained here − During the period of 1980s to 1990s, the deregulation of electric power industry resulted into the commencement of new and independent utility companies and a competitive electricity market was created. In 1990s, several types of renewable energy resources like solar, wind, etc. was introduced to meet the increasing demand and fulfil the environmental policies. After that the period of 1990s to 2000s was come up with the advancement of digit technology and internet which significantly affected the operations of electric grid. In this period, utility companies started implementing digital control systems to manage and operate their electric grids and improve the reliability of the supply system. Phase IV: The Age of Modern Electric Grid This phase of evolution of electric grid is being continue today. The following are some key points related to this phase − This period is considered from 2010s to present. During 2010s, the concept of smart grid came into existence and the digital communication technologies and automation systems are integrated with the electric grids. During this period, the integration of renewable energy resources is further expanded to meet the increasing demand of electricity and create a sustainable way of producing electricity. With the advancement in digital technology in the electric grid, the focus on grid security is increased at both cyber and physical layers. Also, self-healing and grid resilience was developed during the period of 2010s to 2020s. In 2020s, the and are integrated with the electric grid for further enhancement of the grid and for real-time monitoring of system and data. In this phase, another major focus in the electric grid is on the reduced carbon and greenhouse gas emission to create a sustainable and environment friendly energy system. Conclusion The electric grid that we see today has evolved from its simplest form to today’s a large interconnected network of power supply systems. This complete evolution has taken place in different phases. In each phase of evolution, the electric grid has undergone through some technological advancements and other improvements. All these transformations were needed and made to meet the increasing demand of electricity and create a sustainable energy system. In this chapter, we explained the evolution of electric grid over the time. The next chapter will highlight the Concept of Smart Grid. Learning working make money