Smart grid is a relatively new term that is slowly gaining momentum in the business world. A grid refers to the network of transmission lines, transformers, substations, etc. that deliver electricity from the power plant to our businesses or homes. So, what is a smart grid? What makes it different from a traditional grid and how is it beneficial? Find answers to these questions here.
What Makes a Grid “Smart?”
The smart grid is an evolution of the traditional electrical grid, which includes a variety of operational and energy measures that make it more advanced. In a nutshell, it is a generic label given to the application of artificial intelligence and networking capabilities to a traditional electricity distribution system. The major component of the smart grid system is automation, which ensures that each component of the electric grid can ‘talk’ and ‘listen.’ How you ask? Earlier a power company would only get to know of a power shutdown if a customer calls and informs them; however, in a smart grid scenario, the service interruptions are alerted to the power supplier right away through certain components in the grid that stop sending sensor data. Let us take a look at some of the key features that make a grid smart:
- It is fully automated, and there is an integrated two-way communication between all the components of the electric grid
- The control of power distribution, identifying faults, and repairing are fully automated
- The mechanism, decision support software, and management panel are highly advanced
- They are installed with accurate sensing and measurement technologies
Advantages of Switching over to a ‘Smart Grid’
Technology and digitization have taken power supply to the next level. They act as a path to transform the energy industry into a new era of reliability, efficiency, and availability. Some of the key advantages include:
- Electricity transmission is more efficient
- Reduced peak demand that will also help to reduce the electricity rates
- Quicker restoration of electricity in case of power shutdown/disturbances
- Reduces the operations and management cost that will eventually lower the power costs for consumers
- Better security
- Increased integration of large-scale renewable systems
