New power grid may be on the way
A group organized by the IEEE has begun to examine the power grid in an effort to improve the system that has been practically unchanged for 100 years.
Source: EDN -- Consulting-Specifying Engineer, 6/18/2009 3:47:21 PM
The North American power grid has not been severely modified for a century, but that is subject to change with engineers beginning to frame standards for a 21st century grid.
At a meeting held June 3-5 in Santa Clara, Calf., the IEEE's P2030 group began examining the current grid to see which existing standards were relevant. Simultaneously, they discussed technology that would be able to upgrade the gird to increase its efficiency and make it more environmentally friendly.
The 150-person group will work for the next 18 months in three separate technology task forces: power engineering technology, information technology, and communications technology. This will allow engineers to work in specific areas of expertise and enable them to examine how modern technology will affect and improve the grid.
Nearly $4.5 billion of the federal stiumulus package was designated toward a smart grid system.
