What is a SmartGrid?

 

What is a SmartGrid? And why should I care?

It seems like everyone has their own definition of the term "Smartgrid" - and some don't like the word at all. At the Connectivty Week Conference earlier this month, I met many people - all with their own definitions and explanations.

But one of the most complete definitions comes from Christine Hertzog and posted on the site for the SmartGrid Dictionary.

There are many definitions for the Smart Grid, but here's the one that you'll find in the Smart Grid Dictionary along with the DoE characteristics of a Smartgrid:

 

    A bi-directional electric and communication network that improves the reliability, security, and efficiency of the electric system for small to large-scale generation, transmission, distribution, and storage.  It includes software and hardware applications for dynamic, integrated, and interoperable optimization of electric systems operations, maintenance, and planning; distributed generation interconnection and integration; and feedback and controls at the consumer level.  The Department of Energy (DOE) identifies 7 characteristics of a Smart Grid:

    1. Enables active participation by consumers
    2. Handles all generation and storage possibilities
    3. Handles new products, services, and market models
    4. Delivers power quality
    5. Operates efficiently and optimizes assets
    6. Self heals in the course of any system disruptions
    7. Functions with resilience in natural and man-made disasters

You can also find her ebook on the site, which contains a healthy collection of linked and cross-referrenced terms in this rapidly growing space.  If your new to these terms or just trying to keep-up with the growing list of jargon and acronyms - this is a great resource to help guide you along.

Why should you care? Because this one word - with all of its implications is destined to change everyones life from the V2G (Vehicle to Grid) - to DR (demand response - how much and when do you want to buy your energy) - to all the new clean energy generation technology that will be stored, traded and transmitted.