What is Smart Grid Technology?

For most of us in the modern world, a single flick of a switch lights up our homes or brings life into an array of different appliances we use on a daily basis. This seemingly uncomplicated luxury, however, induces an intricate network of communication and collaboration between an array of suppliers and services, both public and private. Communication between these groups is complex -- which is why smart grid technology attempts to make it more effective, more interactive, and finally, more productive.

What is a ‘Grid’?

The word ‘grid’ is extremely vague and confusing in today’s day and age. when people refer to a ‘power grid’, when reality they are referring to a network. This network consists of generation plants, transmission lines, and transformers -- which help in transmitting and distributing high-voltage power to homes.

Another primary issue is that the word "grid" doesn’t really explain the scale in any particular way. It can either refer to a single chain that goes from a power plant into an individual’s home or it can even mean an entire state’s -- or country’s -- power management system.

The reality is that a single chain rarely exists in the current scenario. In most systems, power from several generation plants is transmitted through a series of transmission lines & transformers and then adjusted to deal with variations in demand and capacity.

Maintaining this network in a more proactive and productive way is the aim of the smart grid in energy management.

Role of a Smart Grid?

The smart grid uses technology to elevate aspects of communication, automation, and connectivity of different elements of the power network. For example, this facilitates bulk transmission of power collated from multiple generation plants. It also develops distribution by relaying information from consumers to transformers and generation plants.

One key element of this system is the usage of smart meters in homes and businesses. As a replacement for these traditional analog meters, these digital devices are proficient in two-way communication -- conveying information about both supply and demand between producers and consumers.

The information obtained via smart metering, too, is vital for the operation of a smart grid. By interpreting this data, power generation plants are able to take proactive measures and respond to periods of peak demand. This allows them to lower production when less power is needed and speed up generation when peak periods approach.

By embracing the power of smart technology and the IoT, a smart grid elevates the flexibility and efficiency of the traditional grid. As leaders in the domain of power management and power transformers such as #SchneiderElectric open the door for new opportunities pertaining to intermittent generation methods -- like wind and solar -- and new additions to the network, like electric vehicles #LifeIsOn.