Computing & TelCom Advances for the Smart Grid

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Written by Sudhir K Routray

These days smart grids are very popular. They are not only the power networks; rather they serve the people and businesses in many different ways. In order to carry out all these functions, a lot of measurements are needed in the smart grids. Similarly, a lot of control and monitoring related tasks are essential for the smooth operation of the smart grids. In this article, we present emerging information and communication technologies (ICT) used for the measurement, control and monitoring tasks in the smart grids.

 

Written by Ahmed Altaher

Modern substation automation systems (SAS) play a vital role in modernization of power grids. These systems benefit from stable evolutions of standards such as the IEC 61850 and its parts. Technical Committee 57 (TC57) of the International Electro-technical Commission (IEC) has released this standard to enforce interoperability between substation devices, e.g. Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs), and to enable abstraction of communication services [1]. It provides vertical and horizontal communications between devices and equipment in three levels: station, bay and process (Fig. 1).

 

Written by Doug Houseman

When I started in the industry in the 1960s, edge computers were all analog computers, and they each did one and only one function. Most had dedicated lines to send the readings continuously back to someone who monitored them, but others recorded their information on circle or strip charts for later retrieval. Fast forward more than 50 years, some analog computers are still in use in the distribution system and circle charts still exist. But these devices are becoming ever rarer. Today, if we were to deploy analog instruments and communications lines for all the data, there would be no space for any other communications for anyone.

 

Written by Craig Preuss and Lindsey Spencer

Disruption is the only constant in today’s ever-changing energy landscape. Distributed Energy Resources (DER) are accelerating the transition from a single-direction, centralized electric grid towards a bi-directional, distributed grid faster than any of us ever imagined. The increased penetration of DER through advanced battery applications, electric vehicles and thousands of smart devices is highlighting the need to relocate digital intelligence to the “grid edge” to connect with the smart devices located there, whether it’s by pursuing a centralized, decentralized or hybrid approach. As the industry moves towards a smarter, more flexible and advanced grid, grid edge intelligence will become ever more critical. This article will dive into what utilities can do to better understand and prepare for a more interconnected grid infrastructure.

 


Past Issues

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IEEE Smart Grid Bulletin Compendium

The IEEE Smart Grid Bulletin Compendium "Smart Grid: The Next Decade" is the first of its kind promotional compilation featuring 32 "best of the best" insightful articles from recent issues of the IEEE Smart Grid Bulletin and will be the go-to resource for industry professionals for years to come. Click here to read "Smart Grid: The Next Decade"