Trio of White Papers Explores Power System Transformation
The power system is rapidly changing into a highly integrated network of power generation, delivery systems, and customer-sited distributed energy resources such as solar, energy storage, and grid-interactive appliances. Based on examination of these trends, EPRI and electricity sector stakeholders determined that the future power system needs to be more flexible, connected, and resilient. EPRI kicked off 2016 with the release of three white papers on these characteristics.
Learn about the motivation for producing these white papers from EPRI Senior Vice President of Research and Development Arshad Mansoor:
Flexibility
Power system flexibility is the ability to adapt to changing conditions while providing safe, reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible electricity. EPRI’s white paper on flexibility describes technologies that EPRI and electricity sector stakeholders are developing and applying to address the challenge of flexibility.
Connectivity
Connectivity refers to the widespread deployment of grid communications, providing access to data streams and functions that inform decisions and behaviors from the power plant to the end consumer. As the electric power system transforms from a one-way power flow network to one that enables intelligent and interactive two-way power and information flow, connectivity will be paramount. EPRI’s connectivity white paper discusses challenges and opportunities with emerging technology innovations to improve grid communications.
Resiliency
Resiliency is the ability to harden the grid against—and quickly recover from—extreme weather and other high-impact, low-frequency events. EPRI’s resiliency white paper discusses the three key elements of a resilient grid—damage protection, recovery, and survivability—and related technologies under development.
