Electricity Today T&D Magazine

 How Smart Grid technologies can become an electrical hazard to rescue workers

Smart Grid technologies have risen to prominence in North America. Media outlets, industry experts, vendors, and utilities all echo the same positive sentiments regarding a digitized power grid. However, new technologies can also introduce new hazards. Roy Burch, Manager of Loss Prevention and Environmental Compliance, for Guelph Hydro Electric Systems Inc., a distribution utility for the city of Guelph, Ontario, has actively reached out to first responders in an effort to educate them about the electrical hazards posed by new technologies such as solar panels and electric vehicles.

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The integration of renewable energy sources (RES) into smart grid systems represents a fundamental shift in how energy is generated, managed, and consumed. This transformation is vital for modernizing energy infrastructure, enhancing grid reliability, and fostering sustainability. The shift from a centralized generation model to a decentralized, dynamic, and intelligent smart grid system marks a pivotal moment in the energy sector. By incorporating renewable energy sources and advanced communication technologies, smart grids enable real-time monitoring, adaptive control, and bidirectional power flows, creating a more efficient and resilient energy system.

The Need for a Smart Grid
Traditional power grids are characterized...