In this article, we will discuss the major barriers or challenges of smart grid implementation.
An electrical grid
is defined as an interconnected network of electrical components used for
delivering electrical energy from the power generating station to the consumers
for utilization. This interconnected network of electrical elements is also
known as the power grid.
A typical electrical grid contains four important segments
namely, the power generating station, substation, transmission system, and distribution
system. The electrical power produced at the generating station is
transmitted through a high-voltage transmission system. This transmitted power is
brought up to the substation, where it is transformed to high voltage or low
voltage levels for further transmission or distribution. The last segment of
the power grid, i.e. distribution system connects consumers to the electric
grid through distribution lines.
Based on technology, electrical grids are classified
into two types namely, conventional
electric grid and smart grid. A
smart grid is also known as a modern electric
grid. The smart grid is defined as an integrated system of information and
communication technology, and electric transmission and distribution systems. Therefore,
the smart grid delivers electrical energy to consumers using two-way digital
communication technology.
Smart grid has several advantages such as effective load
management, avoiding demand imbalance, automatic fault detection, improved service
quality, enhanced reliability, and reduced energy cost, etc. However, apart
from these advantages, there are several challenges to the implementation of the smart
grid, which we will discuss in this article.
Challenges for Smart Grid
The following are the major challenges identified in the
implementation of the smart grid technology:
(1). Support from the Government:
The very first challenge of the smart grid implementation is
the lack of government support. Since the electrical utility industry is one of the capital-intensive industries.
But, due to power thefts and subsidization, it has been sustaining very high
losses.
Therefore, without support from the government, this
industry cannot have the financial capacity to fund the implementation of new
technologies. Hence, the government will have to encourage investments in this
industry.
(2). Consumer Awareness:
The second major challenge of the smart grid implementation
is the lack of consumer awareness.
The implementation and expansion of smart grid technology would not be
beneficial without creating consumer awareness.
Thus, the end consumer of electrical energy must be educated
about the importance and advantages of the elements of smart grid technology such
as advanced metering and two-way digital communication. Otherwise, we cannot
achieve the benefits and features of smart grid technology.
(3). Lack of Policies and Regulations:
The lack of
standards, policies, and regulations is another major challenge in the
deployment of smart grid technology. Since the smart grid is a new technology, and
hence, there are no defined standards and policies available for the regulation
of the smart grid initiatives.
(4). Equipment Compatibility Issues:
Another major challenge of the smart grid is the compatibility issues
between existing equipment and smart grid components. Thus, the replacement of
older components of the power grid with intelligent electronic components is highly
required.
(5). Limited Skills and Knowledge:
There are limited experience, knowledge, and skills that
will be required to architect and build smart grids. This limits the deployment
of information and communication technology in the power grids.
Hence, all these are the major challenges of smart grid
implementation. All these barriers are holding back the implementation of smart
grids. However, there are several other challenges as well such as cyber
security issues, less cooperation of complete human beings, speed of
technology development, technology maturity and delivery risk, financial
resources, etc.
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