The Smart Grid, Electricity Transmission, Distribution and Storage

The Smart Grid, Electricity Transmission, Distribution and Storage

1. Sector Background

In other parts of this Report, we look at the development of more efficient, sustainable and most of all cleaner ways of capturing energy and using it, mostly in the form of electricity. The missing link is the process of getting that energy (electricity) from the point of generation to the point of use. This is what this Section is all about.

2. Alternative Technical and Market Solutions

1. 
   Reduced transmission and distribution losses (for 0.90 GtCO₂e).
   
2. 
   Integration of renewable energy sources (for 0.83 GtCO₂e).
   
3. 
   Reduction in consumer use through user information and Demand Side Management (DSM) (0.30 GtCO₂e).
   

Figure 81: The Smart Grid and Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions²³

As we have seen in the discussion of distributed generation above, the use of cleaner energy sources will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is only true, however, if the electricity produced can be fully utilised. This requires considerable input of ICT, although other aspects of the transmission and distribution grid will also need upgrading. The same is true of direct improvement in the level of transmission and distribution losses of electricity, ICT will help, but it is by no means the whole story.

1. 
   Reliable: High quality power when and where it is needed, with no failures.
   
2. 
   Secure: Able to withstand physical and cyber attack, and less vulnerable to natural disaster.
   
3. 
   Economic: Fair prices for the service provided.
   
4. 
   Efficient: Low transmission and distribution loss, efficient power production, asset use optimisation, including options for consumers to manage their energy use.
   
5. 
   Environmentally friendly: Low environmental impact and integration of clean, intermittent energy sources.
   
6. 
   Safe: Capable of use without harm.
   

To achieve these qualities, the Smart Grid must have the following characteristics:

1. 
   Allow active participation in energy management by consumers.
   
2. 
   Seamless integration of all forms of electricity generation, including those owned by consumers.
   
3. 
   Support the creation of new electricity pricing and transfer structures.
   

3. 
   Provide the power quality necessary for the digital economy.
   
4. 
   Optimise asset utilisation and operational efficiency by improving load factors, reducing system losses and greatly reducing power outages.
   
5. 
   Have self-healing abilities, being able to anticipate and respond to system disturbances through continuous self-monitoring and control mechanisms.
   
6. 
   Be rugged enough to withstand attack or natural disaster.