Smart Grid Technologies for a Sustainable Energy Future
Today's energy grid structure is currently - unsustainable. It offers limited flexibility or openness to support emerging renewable technologies.
Smart Grid technologies can provide a more efficient, reliable, and secure energy network.
President Biden has proposed an ambitious goal of creating a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035. To achieve this, he plans to invest in renewable energy sources and modernize the nation's electric grid with innovative grid technologies- enabling utilities to integrate more renewable energy sources, reduce energy wastage, and improve customer service.
These investments will create jobs and spur economic growth, helping reduce emissions and protect the environment. It will also help to make energy more affordable for everyone - while ensuring a reliable and secure energy supply.
To transition to a smart grid future - utilities must invest in the infrastructure and technology to support it - including installing advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) and adopting new technology such as distributed energy resources (DERs), smart grids, and other renewable energy sources.
Unlike the traditional electric grid, a smart grid can read, adapt and react to changes in supply and demand along their supply lines - advantageous for a more intelligent and cleaner energy system, reducing wastage and redirecting energy to where it is required.
Open industry standards are essential for creating a reliable, secure, efficient smart grid communication system.
In addition, regulatory bodies must create policies that incentivize energy providers to innovate and collaborate.
What will be necessary is seamless, transparent partnerships between energy providers, technology companies, with clear directives set to support, develop and implement innovative technologies that reduce energy wastage and increase the availability of renewable energy sources.
What is positive is that smart grid investments are in full swing, projects are being actioned, and some are already up and running - providing consumers with economic benefits alongside sustainable energy consumption.
The good news is that progress is already moving in the smart grid direction, with a cleaner, more efficient, and more economical way of generating and using electricity on the horizon.
By combining the efforts of all stakeholders, we can create a reliable and innovative smart grid that will help us reach net zero.