A “smart network” is the next generation of energy systems that has been upgraded with communication technology and connectivity to enable smarter use of resources. Technologies that make today’s IoT-enabled energy grid “smart” include wireless devices such as sensors, radio modules, gateways, and routers. These devices provide intricate connectivity and communication that empowers consumers to make better energy consumption decisions, allows cities to save on energy consumption and costs, and enables utility companies to restore power more quickly after outages.
A smart grid allows a utility company to assess the health of the system in greater detail than was previously possible. For instance, with smart meters, a utility company can discover real-time electricity needs with granularity and precision simply not possible with older technology. This allows them to better forecast and respond to sudden increases in demand, which can help prevent blackouts.
Etesal Sanat Mianeh is actively involved in smart grid solutions as part of its IoT services.