The Use of Smart Grids in the Energy Transition

The world has witnessed significant advances in technology which includes development of better electricity carriers, decentralization of generation and increasing contribution of variable renewable sources energy to grid electricity as well as electrification of transport which introduces unpredictable and variable load to the grid. These development calls for upgrade of the traditional grid to create a resilient and intelligent electric power grid. This study examines the role of smart grids in the realization of a stable and sustainable electricity grid system. Smart grids use computer programs and hardware to manage electricity generation and distribution resources thus helps in optimization of the energy mix of both renewable and non-renewable energy resources for sustainable power generation and supply through smart grids. Through enhanced intelligence and resilience, smart grids can facilitate increased absorption of variable renewable sources of energy like wind and solar and thus displace fossil fuels from the grid. They enhance the use of microgrids, and decentralization of generation provide the infrastructure and capacity needed to facilitate increased use of renewable energy. They also facilitate participation of all stakeholders in the operation and power delivery between sources and users in a two-way communication and hence creation of prosumers. This will greatly contribute to the dream of a sustainable grid electricity system. Smart grids are critical for an efficient, reliable, resilient, and intelligent power system which are requirements for sustainable grid electricity and so have a critical role in the energy transition.