![]() ![]() For example, it is possible to schedule the on/off time of devices, such as a heat pump or washing machine, with home automation systems that can determine the best usage pattern or set notifications when there’s a risk of exceeding a consumption limit. This makes it possible to improve customer awareness regarding energy that is consumed and self-produced, while also enabling a multitude of new enhanced services, such as home automation and demand response. The way I see it, Italy is a leading light in this sense: in the early 2000s, the country engaged in a massive rollout of smart meters and it is currently undergoing a second-generation rollout with very advanced functionalities, including a near real-time communication channel for in-home devices. Europe and Latin America are ahead of the curve in their adoption of advanced, second-generation metering infrastructure and can serve as models for US utilities and grid operators. Solutions could include technologies for digitalizing field operations, network infrastructure, meters and grids, as well as microgrids.Īdvanced metering helps keeps the lights on and guarantees transparencyĪdvanced metering infrastructure enables the collection of data that supports operators in spotting grid maintenance needs and faults ahead of time, thus helping to keep the lights on when customers need them. These solutions will enable it to better withstand future weather events and mitigate power outages – all while saving lives, protecting property and keeping the economy running. Other regions flagged by the NERC as being at risk of potential capacity shortfalls due to extreme heat and drought conditions included Texas, the Missouri River basin and the Western Interconnection.ĭigital solutions are the key to improving US grid resiliency and guaranteeing long-term sustainabilityĪt Gridspertise, we feel that implementing digital solutions is crucial to efforts to modernize the US power grid. In its 2022 summer reliability assessment, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reported that the Midcontinent Independent Systems Operator would face a 1.7% increase in peak demand with 2.3% less generation capacity than in 2021, resulting in a higher risk of energy emergencies over the summer period. This is why I think that a focus on grid resiliency is crucial for US operators.īut it’s not just a question of climate change: as the US faces weather-induced havoc, it must also come to terms with aging infrastructure and power plant retirements, which will lead to significant electric capacity shortfalls. ![]() This climate change-induced time bomb is one of many risks to the nation’s ability to meet demand for electricity generation and distribution. This past summer, Lake Powell (on the Arizona-Utah border) – the nation’s second-largest reservoir, which supplies water and hydroelectric power to millions across the American West - plummeted to record low levels. The negative effects of climate change are plain for everyone to see, as devastating droughts, floods, heatwaves and cold spells wreak havoc on energy systems and people’s livelihoods around the world. By implementing new smart grids and digital services, the US power network will be in a better position to handle extreme weather events and large demand and supply swings – all while pushing the country toward a more sustainable power generation future.Ĭlimate change and ever-increasing grid vulnerabilities Part of this sum will be dedicated to grid modernization initiatives, including support for investments in smart grids. Through the Inflation Reduction Act, the Biden administration has allocated some $370 billion to “Energy Security and Climate Change programs,” to be deployed over the next 10 years. ![]() As we all know, digitalizing the grid takes time as well as money, and efforts are under way. Demand has boomed, while the supply-side faces various challenges, including aging infrastructure, and these further expose the urgent need for grid modernization in order to improve resiliency.Īs I see it, if these challenges are to be met, then utilities and grid operators need to make significant investments in the implementation of smart grids, new digital technologies, equipment and controls. These extreme weather events – the results of climate change – have led to surges in the demand for energy and put electricity grids under extreme stress, in some cases even leading to supply failures. They have been hit by summer droughts and extreme heat waves, a particularly intense hurricane season and – lastly – record-breaking blizzards and Arctic cold. The past year has been a particularly harsh one for utilities and grid operators in the United States. ![]()
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