Smart Grids: Challenges & Mitigation

Smart Grid means digital automation of the grid. An Electric Grid consists of electricity generating stations, transmission lines, distribution stations, Transformers and many more. Recent advancement in ICT has led to the use of Programmable Logic Controller ( PLC) and Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA). This has allowed two-way communication between utility and consumers. The term “Prosumer” is coined for this kind of interaction. The smart grid represents an unprecedented opportunity to move the energy industry into a new phase of reliability, availability and efficiency that contribute to economic and environmental health.

Fig: Pictorial representation of Smart grid

Technical and Socio-Economic Challenge :

• Development of Grid Infrastructure for Integration of Renewable Energy Sources The Indian national grid is evolving day by day. The mix of renewable energy has increased, particularly solar, wind and small hydro. The integration of solar and wind farm changes the voltage and frequency stability of the grid. These devices also induce harmonics, so a filter is used to mitigate these harmonics. The use of power electronic devices like rectifier and inverter increases the cost of integration.
• Cyber Security:

Connecting the grid to cyber network triggers loopholes. Recognizing and eliminating such loopholes is essential before any security breach occurs. Infusion of malware or viruses in a cyber network would disallow the exchange of information.

• Handling of Big Data:
  Smart grid involves infusing of meters, sensors and controllers. Through the analysis of data, a breakdown or damage could be avoided before occurrence. The data could be used for demand forecasting, generation, monitoring of price. The amount of data is voluminous and is difficult for collection and storage but also in handling and retrieval.
• High Capital Investment and Stake Holders Engagement Due to high initial capital investment in SG technology, the Indian utilities (like DISCOMs) are not able to implement smart grid projects in their region.

Image Source : Researchgate.net

• Lack of Consumer Awareness:

Educating people about technology is the best way of implementing a smart grid as this involves maximum consumer participation. But technology also creates myths. Utilities need to create consumer awareness about power delivery system in the present and future scenario of technology. There is a fear among consumers that smart grid technology deployment would increase the electricity price.

• Energy Management and Electric Vehicles:

Batteries of EVs can be charged in the off-peak period and can be used as a source during peak periods. Power flow control can be used to check the flow of power from the vehicle to grid, grid to vehicle.

Mitigation of Challenges faced by Smart Grid Projects

• Power Evacuation Planning

Since there is more integration of Renewable Energy Sources like solar, wind etc there must be sufficient transmission capacity. This is an intrastate issue. HVDC Transmission has been used for bulk power transmission over long distances with high efficiency and lower electrical losses. High-temperature superconductors and FACTS could be used for reducing the transmission losses.

• Strengthen the grid

Generation station uses Primary Frequency control from generators with a free-governor mode of operations. This mode of control could increase or decrease the generation based on electricity demand.

• Utilities and think tanks Implementation of smart grid, planning and policy conduct workshop and training programs on different aspects of smart grid brings about consumer awareness, which would eradicate myths related to a smart grid.
• Electricity Theft To avoid thefts in places DISCOMs are installing sensors which would detect the point of theft and help in reducing AT&C losses.
• Renewable Energy Management Centre(s)

Data sharing is very important for wind and solar farm. REMCs coordinate data between state load dispatch centres and regional load dispatch centres. This REMCs can help in data retrieval and storage.

• Advanced Metering Infrastructure It involves the deployment of smart meters that enable two-way flow information, provides customers and utilities with data on electricity price and consumption.
• Energy Management System Customer side system help to manage electricity consumption at the industrial, commercial and residential levels which include energy management system and energy storage devices.

Author : Rittick Maity