Understanding The Smart Grid - It's Like Dating In The Dark

April 14, 2010

2 min read

I have been teaching short courses around the country on the Smart Grid and its technologies for a couple of years now. I usually ask the students (attendees) for their definition of the Smart Grid at the beginning. And guess what - there is no one answer. In most cases, there is no consensus either. Most identify with the area they work in and that is all. You might say what is within their reach or touch is all that exists and there is so much more. It reminds me of that reality TV show "Dating In The Dark." The contestants moved very cautiously, slowly feeling their way, but not sure of what is taking place and trying not to get into trouble with their fumbling about and feeling around.

Well folks, one of the goals of the Expo is to turn on the light and let everyone see what we have. Wednesday is designated "Smart Grid Day at T&D." There will be a Smart Grid Super Session devoted to giving everyone the answers and the exhibitors are going to show off their best smart grid stuff (that's a technical term for products). I was told PES is so excited about this session they have moved it from a session room to the Auditorium - that is what I call good planning. That will greatly increase the seating area. Even so, you better get there early (it starts at 8:30am). I know from past experience these sessions fill up fast and late comers miss out.

About the Author

Gene Wolf Blog

Technical Writer

Gene Wolf has been designing and building substations and other high technology facilities for over 32 years. He received his BSEE from Wichita State University. He received his MSEE from New Mexico State University. He is a registered professional engineer in the states of California and New Mexico. He started his career as a substation engineer for Kansas Gas and Electric, retired as the Principal Engineer of Stations for Public Service Company of New Mexico recently, and founded Lone Wolf Engineering, LLC an engineering consulting company.

Gene is widely recognized as a technical leader in the electric power industry. Gene is a fellow of the IEEE. He is the former Chairman of the IEEE PES T&D Committee. He has held the position of the Chairman of the HVDC & FACTS Subcommittee and membership in many T&D working groups. Gene is also active in renewable energy. He sponsored the formation of the “Integration of Renewable Energy into the Transmission & Distribution Grids” subcommittee and the “Intelligent Grid Transmission and Distribution” subcommittee within the Transmission and Distribution committee.