New Smart Grid Technologies

To handle renewable energy sources and varying demand the electricity grid needs modernisation. 

 

A large part of the energy grid is already over 40 years old and unsuitable for new technologies. A modernised grid will help us make the best use of renewable energy and efficiently meet modern energy demands. 

 

Here are some of the things included in the latest announcements: 

 

Virtual Substations. Edge for Smart Secondary Substation Systems (E4S) alliance is working to improve the management of energy flows in smart grids. New E4S equipment will simplify substation design and improve operations. 

 

Digital grid. A Net Zero dashboard will improve monitoring and measurement of the top indicators for decarbonisation. This will help utilities companies keep track of emissions and plan sustainability strategies. Satellite and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies can now provide real-time analytics to help prepare for extreme weather. New approaches will also support efficient planning, monitoring, and operation of low-carbon technologies and the low-voltage grid. 

 

Distribution management. To reduce costs and improve service delivery a management platform will improve monitoring, analytics, and data-driven decision-making. It also provides better information at secondary substations. In Italy it has already improved the efficiency of existing infrastructure. 

 

Subscription services. Distribution System Operators (DSOs) can now take up subscription services to help support digitisation and provide access to the latest smart grid features. 

 

Medium voltage switchgear. Active medium voltage equipment can help manage peak performance. It’s designed for remote monitoring and advanced analytics, providing around the clock oversight. This will help to identify issues quickly and improve condition-based maintenance.