Smart electric islands

This work assesses the formation of electric islands in subtransmission system as a tool for the application of Smart Grid concepts. Accordingly, making use of the international model of smart grids, its general aspects, premises and trends are evaluated while questioning its feasibility and relevance to the Brazilian context. Also, potential benefits and other aspects are specified under the current outlook and under the smart grid perspective. The projected vision is a system architecture oriented by electric islands, with high level of integrated intelligence, which entails new possibilities in the electric power industry. Specific actions are directed to the stakeholders in the Brazilian electric sector, targeting the initial steps towards the concept implementation. A case study strengthens and exemplifies some of these concepts. The conclusion is that the proposed idea supports the feasibility of the smart grid concept in Brazil, resulting in early social gains, besides setting the foundation for development of a new reference in the electric power industry.