The nation’s energy grid is called the power distribution grid, which starts at the power plant and typically consists of spinning electrical generators. There are different ways to spin the generators (diesel engine, gas turbine or hydroelectric dam) but the most common one is the steam turbine. Commercial electric generators will generate 3-phase AC (alternating current) power, which are offset 120 degrees form each other. The 3-phase power then enters a transmission substation that uses large transformers to convert the voltage to be extremely high for long distance transmissions. Every power line has three wires for each of the three phases, along with regulator banks (which could also be underground) to prevent under voltage and over voltage. The wires are attached to the poles in front of houses, and every pole has a transformer drum. The wires connect to the houses, and gives a certain voltage of power that creates electricity for the household.
The smart grid is different from the typical energy grid, since it uses automation and computer based remote controls. The smart grid allows people to see how many watts they are using whenever they use their appliances, rather than waiting for the electric bill. This allows people to realize when they should or should not be using excessive power to keep the cost down. Basically, the smart grid lets people communicate with their technology by the sensing along transmission lines.
Pros: There are many pros to the smart grids, one major one being that they minimize power outages. The smart grid can detect where the power outage is before it becomes a larger problem. Another benefit is increased security and more efficient transmission of energy. It will benefit electric companies by getting rid of manually reading meters. The smart meters will also decrease greenhouse gases from existing power plants.
Cons: Some of the cons include managing long-term financial commitment towards producing the smart grids, and customers will have to pay extra fees. They will also need verification that the grids are accurate and will protect everyone’s personal privacy. An environmental concern is the disposal of the old metes.
References:
http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/smart-grid4.htm
http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/energy/power.htm
http://energy.gov/oe/services/technology-development/smart-grid
https://www.smartgrid.gov/the_smart_grid
http://energy.about.com/od/metering/a/Pros-And-Cons-Of-Smart-Meters.htm
As you implied in your post, there’s a wide range of benefits and possible costs to continuing our launch of the smart grid in the US. However, I definitely agree that the benefits seem to outweigh the costs. From trillions of dollars in consumer savings to better environmental protection, it simply seems like an investment we need to make.
On the note of storage, the smart grid will allow us to use more renewable fuels and transport that energy across the country with less energy loss. This will really help us as we discuss a more global solution to climate change.