Communication, Control and Security Challenges for the Smart Grid

Smart grids are electrical grids using ICT and two-way communications to enable varying two-way flows of electricity and information for the integration of distributed renewable generation and power storage. Research and development in this field centres on three main areas; the infrastructure system, the management system, and the protection. The integration of advanced communication, sensing, control, and optimization techniques into traditional power systems is a key challenge in transforming conventional grids into smart grids, and so empowering consumers with real-time information and control over their power usage and production.