Bouvet Island electrical smart grid

What is a smart grid?

Smart and embedded systems that combine distribution management systems, advanced metering infrastructure and data from substation gateways to shape the grid similar to the internet, with the ability to self-diagnosis and self-healing – that’s the vision of many in the smart grid industry.

What is an island grid?

Island grids are an electrical power supply task with a small number of power generating plants and consumers. Island grids do not have a synchronous connection to a large network and therefore have to be able to provide all tasks necessary for long-lasting and safe operation on their own.

What are the challenges of Island grids and microgrids?

One challenge of island grids and microgrids is to maintain the balance between production and consumption. Diesel generators are still frequently used for this task. Due to the unavoidable dependence on fuel price and delivery options, and the environmental impact, alternatives are being sought.

What is the difference between Island grids and microgrids?

Microgrids are similar, but also have the capability to connect synchronously to a large network. Island grids are typically the result of geographical circumstances that render the connection to a large network costly or even impossible. Microgrids, in contrast, are designed to increase the security of supply in case the large network breaks down.

Are wind and solar energy a good choice for Island and microgrids?

Wind and solar power are independent of imported fuels and environmentally friendly, and therefore the logical choice for island and microgrids. However, these renewable energies are dependent on variable resource availability; hence their maximum production capacity is subject to natural fluctuations.