The Digital Bridges Technology, Apps, Gadgets, Media and More
Smart grid is a blanket statement for the application of computer intelligence to electricity services. Smart grid initiatives involve the use of computer-based remote control and automation in electricity delivery systems. This method is used to facilitate a more reliable, cost effective and independent energy source. Several communities will benefit from the implementation of the smart grid, whether they use a distros system or not. Below are just some of the ways in which smart grid can benefit schools, businesses and residential areas.
What Is The Smart Grid?
Simply put, the smart grid is just the computerizing of the standard electric utility grid. This has environmental benefits, much like eco-friendly apps. What does this process entail? Turning the electric utility grid into the smart grid includes adding technology for two way digital communication to existing devices with an established connection to the grid. Another key component is adding automation technology, to enable the devices to become “smart.” This is the real smart grid definition, to help you understand the advantages it provides.
Updated Infrastructure
With the implementation of the smart grid comes a complete overhaul of outdated equipment, like iFax. America’s current electrical system is decades old. With the smart grid, new digitally-capable equipment will be put in place. This new system will help support an increasing demand for electricity. Power is delivered more consistently because smart grid equipment allows for a smoother flow of power. That means users will see a decrease in blackouts and surges. With smart grid implementation, many will soon get to enjoy a reliable, efficient electricity system.
Money Saved
With smart grid advance metering, utilities will be able to offer demand response services. These services help users cut back power usage during heat waves and cold spells. It is done by reducing peak-demands within the smart grid. That can help all types of energy users, schools, businesses and private individuals, save money. It is up to you to decide what you do with those savings, whether the options are buying a television or expanding your business. The cost savings made available through renewable smart grid energy is certainly an advantage for all stakeholders.
Consumer Control
The new equipment involved in the smart grid will take electricity delivery systems to the next level. Electricity will go digital. Consumers will be able to keep a closer eye on their use of electricity, without having to use a DIY inductor. Smart grid will make it possible for you to monitor and adjust your energy use as easily as an online bank account or social media page. Digital smart meters, the equipment that logs your energy use, can send that information straight to your computer. You will always be able to know exactly how much electricity you are using. This means more money for you later and no surprises on your electricity bill. Consumer control is a considerable advantage to smart grid over the old methods.
Troubleshooting
Going digital benefits more than just the consumer. It also benefits electricity companies by making their jobs easier, which also gives them more time to devise crucial cyber terrorism prevention features. Today, utility workers have to collect data in person in all different types of locations, some of which may be unsafe. With smart grid, data can be sent directly to the electricity companies when a problem arises. They can detect and isolate power outages. That way, the problem can be contained and utility companies can devise a solution faster to get the power up and running again. It will also reduce costs by allowing energy companies to monitor high-demand times for electricity. Consumers will be able to personally reduce their energy consumption during peak use periods, allowing energy companies to forego costly standby power plants. In cases of troubleshooting, smart grid energy is much more efficient.
Green Renewable Energy
One of the greatest and most promising aspects of the smart grid is the use of renewable energy. Smart grids allow energy services to manage various forms of renewable power sources across the country. Whether it comes from wind farms or solar plants, smart grid can then store this energy safely and later distribute the energy wherever it is needed. Smart grid can also reduce our carbon footprint. The use of renewable resources and consistent access to data will allow us to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Smart grid is ushering us into a better age of energy much quicker than meteorites travel.
Smart grid is an excellent and feasible way to upgrade our current electricity system. By going digital, our electricity system can vastly improve both as a green energy resource and a functioning service. Thankfully, the smart grid is not nearly as difficult to grasp as the abstraction definition. With smart grid consumers will have more control over their energy use and America can finally start implementing renewable energy sources into our power grid.
NIST Led Smart Grid Developments
If you are interested in finding out how you can learn more about the smart grid or get involved in the smart grid as an engineer, policymaker or even just consumer, there is one organization leading this Congress mandated charge. The NIST, or National Institute of Standards and Technology, is responsible for coordinating and accelerating smart grid security standards and interoperability. The new smart grid will need to devise an IT strategy as one of its most critical first steps. Check out the NIST Framework and Roadmap for Smart Grid Interoperability for the foundations on which future work will be based. If you are interested in becoming involved, this is the perfect place to start.
Photo from http://www.hudoud.com/products/smart-grid-enterprise-elements/
