Smart Grids
The term ‘Smart Grids’ is typically used to describe an evolution of the electrical power networks; the collective implementation of new technologies, processes, or solutions in improving the efficiency/reliability, reducing the losses/interruptions of the networks, and in solving new challenges being faced by electricity distribution networks. Examples include improved monitoring/data gathering and advanced control systems.
However, the real impact of Smart Grids is in the integration of the consumer into the whole process as also a producer and participant in service provision to this new 'active' grid of the future by use of home appliances and small scale generation. Combine this with advances in new network architectures, operations and service provision of the traditional networks and some understanding of the potential emerges.
As well as the challenges being seen by the introduction of new system architectures, new sources of generation/storage, and new control systems, there also exists an opportunity to 're-think' the market and business models within the sector. Smart Grids could potentially enable a system of aggregators and Demand Side Participation.
There are technical, commercial, cultural, and political factors to be overcome in encouraging the step-change required towards decarbonising and the UK and European economies. Demonstration and deployment projects are necessary in advancing concepts in assisting to overcome these factors, and in this respect the SEGEC aims to assist.
SEGEC aims to facilitate partnership/collaboration and the application for local to European-level funding schemes in pursuing the development of sustainable energy technologies, such as those captured by the term Smart Grids. As such, SEGEC are interested to hear of innovative projects/concepts in this area. The initiative has already been successful in submitting bids and securing funding for other sustainable energy projects and is keen to hear from others hoping to move from demonstration to deployment of proven concepts in the area of Smart Grids.
For further information on SEGEC's activities in this area, please contact Jonathan Leucci, Thematic Manager for Grids, at jonathan.leucci@segec.org.uk.
