2009-06-11 - Renewable energy from wind, solar, biofuels, co-generation -- energy suppliers and consumers want more renewable energy sources to offset the dominance of carbon based fuels. As the supply of alternative sources of energy grows, existing transmission and distribution networks will need to accommodate these distributed energy sources.
How can utilities integrate the growing amount of electricity likely to be generated at a local level by solar panels on rooftops, individual windmills and other renewable energy projects?
Distribution networks need to move from traditionally passive (those planned for particular peak loads and for use as fit-and-forget networks) to more active or dynamically adapting networks.
“Smart grids” are an important part of the solution to meeting climate protection objectives and for balancing load and power generation.
The electric grid of the future would need to integrate all types of distributed generating systems. A more intelligent grid will increase the importance of communication and information technology – even down to individual appliances and devices.
In the future, instead of system management based on historical values, real-time data coming from many more information sources will be more relevant. “Smart metering” (equipping appliances and devices with meters that have bidirectional communication capabilities) will take on a key role. Consumers would have more control over their electricity bill.
In many countries work is being done to pilot this infrastructure. New system management concepts will be developed and tested in the coming years to reach climate protection goals.
ABB is participating in several pilot and research projects in this area across the globe. One example is the MEREGIO (Minimum Emission Region) project that involves integration of decentralized power generation and renewable energy sources by using modern information technology such as that seen in real-time price signals to consumers.
For more information on smart grids visit www.abb.com/energyefficiency.