Prospects of Smart Grid Technologies for a Sustainable and Secure Power Supply

Deregulation and privatization is posing new challenges on high voltage transmission and on distributions systems as well. System elements are loaded up to their thermal limits, and power trading with fast varying load patterns is contributing to an increasing congestion. In addition to this, the dramatic global climate developments demand for changes in the way electricity is supplied. Environmental sustainability and security of power supply are the goals for future grid developments. Global investments required in the energy sector until 2030 are an estimated 16 USD trillion, according to IEA statistics. In Europe alone, some 500 billion Euro worth of investment will be needed to upgrade the electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure. The electricity network of the future must be secure, cost-effective and gentle on the environment. (auth)