ABSTRACT
Smart grids are a relatively new development in power systems and due to the possible complexity of such systems; the possibilities have yet to be clearly defined. Drawing a clear distinction between one grid configuration being “smart” and another failing the criterion is not realistic. Instead, it is much more practical to consider smart grids in terms of opportunities to improve the operation of the power system that are exploited or can be exploited. One of the keys features of a smart grid is the ability to utilize information to make better operational decisions. This paper proposes that significant improvements can be made to the operations of a smart grid by providing information about the likely behavior of renewable energy – either through online short-term forecasting or longer-term assessments.
Keywords: Smart grid, renewable energy, forecasting, assessment
