Preparing the workforce for smart distribution systems

Emphasis on smart grid and renewable energy generation is changing the way distribution systems are planned and operated. The smart distribution systems of the future and will have intelligent sensors and automated devices at strategic locations to enable two-way communication of real-time data. They will also be able to handle large penetration of customer-owned wind or solar generation, other distributed energy sources, and electric vehicles. These changes will require that the students of future and working professionals are well prepared to work with the new systems. The paper focuses on definitions related to smart distribution systems. This is followed by some strategies to educate students and professionals about smart distribution systems.