Updating to a smart grid

Image Credit: NASA/GSFC/Craig Mayhew and Robert Simmon

The North American power grid is in dire need of an update. Utility companies have been using workers for most of their data collection for a century. With all the technology we have access to, this old way of working does not make sense. Making systems computerized and fast reacting to changing circumstances is the only logical way that we can continue to grow and sustain them.

There are many new technologies coming out and an abundance of already established technologies that could be used in very beneficial ways to improve our power grid. For example, high consumption devices like electric cars could be used as batteries to offset their strain on the grid when not in use. Better power management working from grid to grid would  reduce inefficiencies during electricity demand fluctuations. Designing a new system from the ground up in a smart way would be key to a sustainable power distribution system.

Sources:
U.S. Department of Energy