Weekly Brief

Significant Power Distribution Tech Trends in 2022 and Beyond

Utilities Tech Outlook | Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Utility companies are experiencing a dynamic and exciting time. Power grid modernization in the country depends on data and analytics than ever before.

FREMONT, CA: There are daily news articles about how the U.S. energy grid must adapt and modernize to satisfy the rising demand for cleaner, more reliable electricity. In certain regions, power outages caused by storms or safety issues have strained the nation's electrical grid to its breaking point. Regulatory organizations and customers both need solutions.

Utilities are taking action. The power distribution grid is about to undergo rapid evolution thanks to substantial funding for infrastructure upgrades and widespread customer support.

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This unusual climate will determine the performance of electric utilities in 2023 according to the following priorities. Staying ahead of these technological advances in the utility industry might provide a competitive edge.

Data will assist utilities in enhancing their current grid infrastructure

A stronger grid may incorporate the undergrounding of cables, the replacement of aging equipment, the management of vegetation, and the prioritization of upgrading projects. Today, utilities collect data from the network via supervisory control, acquisition, and energy management systems, but the data is uploaded and processed too slowly.

Data in real-time is required for a more efficient grid. Without it, utilities lack the necessary visibility and control to meet rising demand. Utilities may prioritize modernization projects and lay the groundwork for future operations with this tool.

Utilities prioritize having access to real-time data at the network's edge in 2022 and beyond. Distribution grid line sensors will give actionable information regarding electricity usage trends, line disturbances, and grid stability. This information will be used to improve the perimeter of the grid.

Combining solar and wind power output at the periphery with conventional generating will necessitate increased monitoring and management.

Changes at the edge of the grid necessitate increased visibility and control by operators since they force the grid to respond to demand spikes and bidirectional power flow. These variables weren't considered when most U.S. distribution grid was built. Approximately 70 percent of the distribution grid is 25 years or older.

In response to the demand for renewable energy, grid-connected rooftop solar climbed by 19 percent in 2020 and will continue to rise in the coming years. Several innovative firms are integrating rooftop wind turbines into the network. These new energy sources at the grid's periphery force the grid to handle bidirectional power flow, which can have a negative impact on grid stability and voltage quality.

High demand at the edge from charging electric vehicles (EVs) is already producing spikes in demand—a challenge for effective grid operations that will only intensify as EVs spread. In 2020, 0.7 percent of light-duty vehicles globally will be electric, but that number is expected to rise to 31 percent by 2050.

Utilities will prioritize grid dependability and resilience in the face of edge-of-grid developments. As these organizations strive to ensure quality and dependability, data-driven insights are of utmost importance. Utilities will deploy more sensors and undertake sophisticated analytics to record and analyze grid data to prevent disruptions and outages.

Data and analytics will assist the industry in becoming more productive.

By monitoring and analyzing the specifics of power distribution and consumption, data collection and analysis advancements enable utilities to become more efficient by giving the insights and visibility necessary to reduce downtime. Utilities can monitor the distribution network's real-time status and utilize data to detect faults and prevent problems before they arise. In 2023, utilities will employ data to embed greater precision and control into their electricity distribution strategies to boost efficiency and dependability.

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