The smart grid and the revolution in the energy sector
The smart grid represents a real revolution in energy. “Grid” in English means “grid, lattice” but also “power grid.”
A smart grid is an electric grid that is “intelligent,” that is, equipped with ICTs that enable it to interactively control and manage, in real time, the flow of energy in the grid. Information is provided by a number of sensors and processed by software that works alongside the power grid for better power distribution and management, avoiding blackouts and overloads.
Smart grids are also referred to as “smart power grids” because compared to the older, more centralized and unidirectional models of power generation and transmission, these rely on grid models. In fact, there are many small plants, placed near places of consumption that produce energy that they can store or release to the distribution grid, optimizing performance and economic and environmental costs.
The economic advantage
The economic benefit to users is possible because in a smart grid system there is the ability to change one’s energy withdrawal profile following a request from the grid operator. The Smart Grid “responds to demand” and asks users for flexibility in modulating their energy consumption and electricity use, balancing needs throughout the day, perhaps concentrating consumption at times when the price is cheapest.
From an environmental point of view, a smart grid system is able to:
– Analyze and solve any malfunctioning problems (self-healing);
– Provide a level of quality truly commensurate with the needs of users and industries;
– Enable the use of different generation technologies, including renewables;
– enable capital optimization while minimizing operation and maintenance costs through constant monitoring and predictive maintenance.
