Smart Grid for tomorrow’s electricity distribution

Harriman, Adam J. (2011) Smart Grid for tomorrow’s electricity distribution. [USQ Project]

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Abstract

Smart Grid promises to increase the reliability and efficiency of the current electricity grid through greater measurement and control. This project discusses the benefits of Smart Grid, and evaluates the performance of a Smart Grid in South East Queensland through the use of computer software simulations.

Smart Grid is not a specific technology, but rather a concept, which enhances current electricity grid infrastructure. It is typically described as a dynamic power
transmission and distribution network which is characterized by the use of two-way communications technologies. Much research has been performed regarding Smart Grid concepts in recent years, with significant implementation in some European countries and the United States. While some of these concepts apply to Australia,
there is a need for specific investigation to be carried out in order to achieve maximum effectiveness in integrating Smart Grid locally.

To build A Smart Grid model, first data regarding weather, electricity prices and electricity loads was gathered with the assistance of Energex, the Australian Energy
Market Operator (AEMO) and the Bureau of Meteorology. The analysis of this data provided information regarding electricity usage patterns, as well as system attributes
such as peak demands and load factors.

A South East residence was chosen for a case study and a Home Area Network (HAN) model was constructed which determined the operation as well as system components. On this basis, multiple simulations were performed using Matlab
software, to determine the effects of the Smart Grid.

The results demonstrate the economical benefits for residential customers. As well as this, comparison with current electrical load trends estimates the real benefits in terms of system performance and economy for the entire SE Queensland electricity grid when using Smart Grid. The results from this study show that using Smart Grid, and
particularly demand-side response in residential applications, will lower the peak demand of the overall electricity network and improve system load factors. This in
turn would create a more efficient and economically viable electricity network for the future.

The use of Smart Grid in Australia is inevitable, but it is vital that consideration be given to the protocols and designs used so that its application is most effective. It is hoped that the outcomes of this project will stimulate greater implementation of Smart Grid, and provide reference for future work in this area of study.


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Item Type: USQ Project
Refereed: No
Item Status: Live Archive
Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: Historic - Faculty of Engineering and Surveying - Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (Up to 30 Jun 2013)
Supervisors: Xiang, Wei.
Date Deposited: 04 Apr 2012 05:03
Last Modified: 03 Jul 2013 01:08
Uncontrolled Keywords: Smart Grid; electricity distribution; computer software simulation
Fields of Research (2008): 09 Engineering > 0906 Electrical and Electronic Engineering > 090607 Power and Energy Systems Engineering (excl. Renewable Power)
Fields of Research (2020): 40 ENGINEERING > 4008 Electrical engineering > 400805 Electrical energy transmission, networks and systems
URI: https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/21064

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