Introduction to IES panel discussion on Smart Grids

The Smart Grid (SG) has come to describe a next-generation electrical power system that is typified by the increased use of communications and information technology in the generation, delivery and consumption of electrical energy. The National Institute of Standards and Technology Smart Grid Conceptual model provides a high level framework that defines seven important Smart Grid domains: Bulk Generation, Transmission, Distribution, Customers, Operations, Markets and Service Providers. Key elements of Smart Grids include control systems and automation (e.g. SCADA), distributed energy resources, information and communication technologies (e.g. Internet, Zigbee), renewable energy sources (e.g. solar, wind, geothermal), power electronics, security, self-healing, smart metering and sensing, standards and storage.