The paradigm revolution in the distribution grid: The cutting-edge and enabling technologies

Abstract

Bi-directional information and energy flow, renewable energy sources, battery energy storage, electric vehicle, self-healing capability, and demand response programs, etc., revolutionized the traditional distribution network into the smart distribution network. Adoption of modern technologies like intelligent meters such as advanced metering infrastructure & Micro-phasor measurement units, data storage, and analysis techniques and incentive-based electricity trading mechanisms can bring this paradigm shift. This study presents an overview of popular technologies that facilitate this transformation, giving focus on some prime technologies such as real-time monitoring based on Micro-phasor measurement units, data storage and analytics, blockchain technology, multiagent systems, and incentive-based energy trading mechanisms.