The electricity transmission network in the United States was created 100 years ago. Over the years, the existing network has been upgraded and improved with the advancement of technology; but with increasing demand and electricity consumption, it has needed to reconstruction and upgrade of the power transmission infrastructure.
By 2050, the demand for electricity consumption is expected to double, according to these conditions, it is possible to update the installations and electricity transmission’s infrastructure using new technologies.
Aging infrastructure
Originally designed in the 1890s, our country’s first network was initially designed to deliver electricity to consumers at a monthly cost, based on consumption. Bidirectional communication between the consumer and the utility was neither planned nor even considered at that time.
Because of this limited one – way interaction, the current power grid of the country can’t fit well with 21 st century technologies. However, the continuous improvement of technology has led to the invention of the smart grid.
The smart grid uses digital technology to create a mutual dialogue where electricity and information can be exchanged between electricity and consumer producers.
Natural disasters such as storms or earthquakes can disrupt the network and power outages. The disruption in the infrastructure can damage the safety and health of many people and society; including in the cold seasons of the year, the interruption of electricity leads to the disconnection of the heating system or a threat to the stability of the economy and national security.
Smart grid’s benefits
One of the key benefits of smart grid technology is in the event of a power outage, the two-way communication enables the system to reroute and mitigate the effects of a power outage. Within a smart grid, a developing network of communications, controls, computers, automation, and new technologies work together to make electrical consumption more efficient, reliable, and secure, as well as greener.
With information, transparency, and greater control, smart grid technology makes consumers aware of their type and consumption. For example, rather than aware of the amount of electricity consumption after submitting it, the technology enables the consumer to control and regulate consumption during use.
New digital and smart meters can connect the power supply, appliances in your home, which helps to digitally control the consumption and cost of energy in your home.
Rising demand for electricity, increasing demand for consumer involvement, and the need for transparency are putting a lot of pressure on the old infrastructure. By replacing smart grids, the technology will help improve power transmission infrastructure and manage electrical needs through two-way communication between suppliers and consumers.
Source: powerlinesinc.com