The technology toolbox to meet Smart Grids challenges

The vision for electricity networks of the future was developed by a European group of experts in the framework of the technology platform for European electricity networks of the future - ''Smart Grids''. The drivers, the definition and the core elements of the Smart Grid approach are presented. The Smart Grid technologies are considered separately for transmission and distribution. The growing role of information and communication technologies and of the application of global standards is considered. (orig.)