Distribution Automation important for Smart Grid Utilities
July 13, 2011
A new report from Pike Research shows that worldwide distribution automation (DA) revenues have increased in the past few years from $1.2 billion in 2008 to $2.7 billion in 2010. By 2014, forecasts are that revenues in the sector will reach $10.4 billion annually.
Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) has captured most of the smart grid limelight over the past few years. This emphasis is changing, as distribution automation (DA), encouraged by the opportunities of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and distributed generation (DG), moves advanced capabilities from the pilot stage to early commercial adoption.
The smart grid is made to transform the electricity distribution network from a one-way to a multi-way power network. With smart meter projects underway, utilities are now improving efficiency and control in the segment of the grid that lies between the substation and the meter.
DA upgrades not only improve reliability and efficiency within grid operations but also have the potential to for strong investment without intensive consumer engagement or behavior change.
DA initiatives are taking many forms in various utility projects. Once reserved to simple remote control of field-based switches and sensors with the primary aim of increasing reliability,
The primary aim was to increase reliability using simple remote control of field-based switches and sensors but now DA technologies are beginning to comprehend the demand response capability of conservation voltage control (CVR) and the energy management possibilities of dynamic load distribution.
