Perfect Power: “Smart” Technology
In today’s electric power system, the only thing that gets carried over power lines is power. In tomorrow’s system, the lines will carry both power and information, in real time, to be used exactly when and how each is needed.
Digital communication: The grid will be equipped with instantaneous sensors that will gather information from every inch of the grid, collecting data about how much power is flowing where and how reliable it is, at the exact time it is flowing. These data will be communicated wherever they are needed, including to household appliances, which will respond by using only the precise amount of power needed while taking into account the price of energy at any given time.
Digital control: In today’s electromechanical system, the switches that act as traffic controllers on the grid operate at a speed that is equivalent of being 10 days late, relative to the speed of light. Based on the continuous flow of information from the sensors, smart digital controls will be able to anticipate and respond intelligently to whatever is happening anywhere in the grid. For example, if a sensor finds that one power line is on the verge of being congested, the controller will, in real time, reroute power to lines that have available capacity.
Why is it better?
Today’s electric power system is dangerously vulnerable and inefficient because it lacks these smart technologies and the other 21st century innovations described below.
- Reliability: Working in real time, these sensors and controllers can prevent most power disturbances caused by supply interruptions or congestion before they happen. Should a portion of the utility grid go out, these controllers can proactively move power around the damaged portion and use locally distributed clean power generation to avoid any interruption in service.
- Efficiency: This system will also reduce the need for new power lines and generating plants because it will ensure every line and power plant is used most efficiently at all times. What’s more, providing customers and their electric appliances with the ability to automatically respond to power demand and price signals will fundamentally increase the efficiency of electricity use while significantly cutting power costs.
- Security: These smart systems will be able to instantaneously wall off or “island” problem areas on the grid so that they do not affect other parts. This will minimize the damage and disruption in case of a terrorist attack or natural disaster.
