1. EE379K/EE394V Smart Grids: Introduction
Ross Baldick, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Spring 2017
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2. Outline Definition of smart grid. Course overview. Homework exercise.
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3. Definition of smart grid.
The application of information processing and communications to the power grid.
Smart grid discussions are often focused on the distribution system,
We will take an expansive definition of “grid:”
Include transmission and generation,
Include end-use of electricity.
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4. Schematic of power grid.
Generation
Transmission
system
End-use
End-use
Distribution
system
Distribution
substations
Distribution
feeders
Distributed
generation
End-use
End-use
End-use
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5. Definition of smart grid.
Smart grid has received considerable hype.
We will endeavor to clarify various concepts:
smart grid,
self-healing grid,
microgrid,
digital grid.
Evaluate costs and benefits.
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6. Course overview. Architecture of smart grid.
Generation and transmission system:
Smart operations of existing system.
Renewables.
Human factors.
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7. Course overview, continued.
Distribution systems:
Ecosystem of smart grid.
Advanced hardware.
Advanced metering.
Application functions.
Storage.
Residential power quality.
Retail.
Rates and pricing.
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8. Course overview, continued.
End-use:
Residential electricity and gas.
Distributed solar.
Electric vehicles.
Contrarian view.
Course material presented by industry experts volunteering their time to prepare material and teach classes.
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9. Homework Exercise: Due Thursday, Jan. 26.
1 a) Without looking at a dictionary or a search engine, define what you would mean by “self-healing.” You might use an example in terms of healing of a cut or wound, but try to make the definition generic. b) Use a search engine to obtain a definition of “self-healing grid.” Avoid circular or self-referential definitions such as “a self-healing grid is a grid that can heal itself.” Define specifically what is meant by the webpages that refer to self-healing grid. c) Compare the two meanings of self-healing. Is the definition of self-healing grid a reasonable one, given your prior understanding (as described in part a)) of what it generically means to be self-healing. d) Find as many definitions as you can of: (i) “smart grid,” (ii) “microgrid,” (iii) “digital grid.”
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