What
is a Smart Grid?
A "smart grid" is an electric power delivery system that stretches from point of
generation to point of consumption. Integrated with advanced communications
and information technology, all equipment and devices in a smart grid are
connected by sensory elements to form a complete power network. The
information is integrated and analyzed to optimize power resources, reduce
costs, increase reliability, and enhance electric power efficiency.
A smart grid is an intelligent automated system for monitoring
the flow of electricity and making the distribution of electricity
more efficient. In a world where protecting the environment
is a major concern, it is important to find cost-effective
ways of reducing power usage and increasing energy independence.
Existing power supply systems implement a "centralized power supply" that often
involves high voltages and large-scale electric power networks. With this type of power
supply, failures in the electricity network can have a huge impact on the entire power
supply system, and often cause widespread system shutdowns.
Because of the potential benefits, many governments are
developing smart grid solutions and implementing a distributed
power network instead of a centralized network. Distributed
power networks are highly integrated and include power generation,
power transmission, and power distribution, with power meters
and home appliances, such as refrigerators, TV sets, washing
machines, and personal computers also considered part of
the network. Engineers who design and manage distributed
power networks must handle a number of tasks, including
energy management, data communication, and information analysis.
 Why Get Smart?
 Using a smart grid solution provides the following benefits:
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Enhances energy usage efficiency |
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Increases the proportion of distributed power generation
systems and renewable energy solutions |
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Enhances the flexibility of the power supply |
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Reduces the overall costs of delivering power to end users |
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Improves the stability and quality of the power supply |
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Makes all facets of energy distribution safer |
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Smart Grid Architecture
By optimizing the electric power grid we can get more out of the existing
infrastructure without needing to invest a lot of capital in new technology for
generation, transmission, and distribution facilities. In fact, by making the grid
smart, we can create a completely integrated system, from power generation
to power distribution to power use in the household, and to a certain degree,
the smart grid concept can get the most out of renewable energy operations
by integrating the local micro-electricity grid to replace more traditional power
supply sources such as carbon-fueled and nuclear power plants.
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