Top 5 Smart Grid Trends to Expect in 2023
As we take a leap into 2023, it's clear that the smart grid revolution is in full swing, and the energy industry is charged up about the latest trends. So, if you're looking to stay ahead of the curve, here are the top 5 smart grid trends to watch out for.
Plug & Play: The Art of DERs Synchronisation
Distributed energy resources (DERs) are the latest buzzword in the energy sector, and for good reason. These renewable energy sources such as rooftop solar panels and wind turbines offer a clean and efficient way to generate power. However, integrating DERs into the grid is easier said than done. Smart grids will be working overtime to make sure all these new energy sources play nice with the existing power grid. This means updating outdated regulations and developing new technologies to optimally manage the flow of energy.
Charge Forward: Merging EVs into Modern Life
The only thing hotter than EVs right now is the demand for them. As more and more consumers switch to electric vehicles (EVs), smart grids will need to be prepared to handle the increased demand for energy. Smart charging stations and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies will be working together to keep these energy hogs in check. Smart charging stations will be able to communicate with the grid, adjusting the charging speed and timing based on the grid's demand. Meanwhile, V2G technologies will allow EVs to store energy and feed it back into the grid during peak demand periods. Through Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) applications, EVs can act as storage systems and provide a range of flexibility services. Moreover, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) enables EVs to provide flexibility services beyond the grid, such as to homes and businesses, while V2G enables them to provide grid services directly. These services include local optimisation, explicit demand response, and ancillary services for transmission operators.
Watt Wardens: Guardians of Energy Storage
Energy storage systems are like a power bank for the grid. They're there when you need it, and they'll keep your devices juiced up even when the power goes out. In 2023, we can expect to see increased adoption of energy storage systems, such as batteries and pumped hydro storage. Energy storage systems will allow for greater flexibility in the management of energy demand and supply. With energy storage, excess energy can be stored during times of low demand and released during peak demand periods, reducing the need for additional generation capacity.
Small but Mighty: Unleashing Microgrid Marvels
Microgrids are the mavericks of the energy world. They're like the little engines that could, chugging along on their own or in tandem with the main grid. Microgrids are small, localised power grids that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main grid. They offer a range of benefits, including increased resilience, reduced energy costs, and improved power quality. In 2023, we can expect to see increased adoption of microgrids, particularly in remote and rural areas.
Bytes of Brilliance: AI's Electrifying Impact
Artificial intelligence (AI) is like the Siri of the energy world, predicting when you'll need more energy and finding new ways to optimize the grid's performance. In 2023, we can expect to see increased use of AI algorithms in smart grid management. These algorithms will be able to predict demand patterns, identify potential issues before they occur, and optimize the operation of the grid. This will allow for better management of energy flows and improved reliability and efficiency of the grid.
That's where FLEXO comes in. Hive Power's AI engine optimises appliance, solar, and EV charging schedules, analysing weather and renewables, and coaching energy-savvy prosumers. This mastermind monitors community pods, streamlines energy community management, and delights users with an intuitive, modern experience. FLEXO's pièce de résistance? Battery On Wheels Tech, bridging V2H (vehicle-to-home), V2G (vehicle-to-grid), and V2X (vehicle-to-everything), all while providing top-notch B2B support. Simply put, FLEXO is the energy game-changer.
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