Vladilena Milizé
Apprentice
- Sep 11, 2023
- 157
| TYPE | Infrastructure |
| CLIENT | Japan |
| PROJECT | Smart Power Grid |
| PROJECT COST | 1,500,000,000.00 |
| COMPLETION DATE | 07/12/2023 |
| PROJECT INFORMATION | The expansion of Japanese energy production in the nuclear field does not immediately result in a problem on the electricity grid, however the addition of a much greater ratio of variable energy production through wind, solar and other renewable resources can put significant strain on older energy grids. As such the government has committed to upgrading the energy grid with new smarter technologies. One step in this is replacing existing electricity lines with thicker versions. Also any line currently still over ground that can be placed underground will be. Technology will be installed that can more actively monitor energy production, and reduce the output of other facilities in kind. This has several advantages. Consumer Energy Production: As renewable technologies such as solar panels have become more affordable, home owners and business owners have begun installing solar panels on their property and selling any excess power over their normal energy consumption to the grid. As part of the upgrade smart electricity meters will be installed at consumer facilities. These smart meters communicate using 3G or once available 4G with the network to indicate how much power is being taken off the network, but more importantly how much is returned. Customers will receive compensation for the power they return to the network. This will furthermore encourage further investment in renewable energy sources by consumers. Reduce Nonrenewable Output: During moments of peak production, a smart power grid can measure when more power is produced than is being used. During these times nonrenewable power plants can reduce their production to keep the grid balanced. In turn during moments of peak consumption or a reduction in renewable production, the output can be increased. Keeping the network balanced will reduce energy waste and ultimately the environmental impact of the ever expanding Japanese digital economy. Future Readiness: With the predicted impending explosion of innovative new technologies such as EVs, highly efficient home batteries, and many other technologies currently not even known yet, an upgraded and smart power grid will not need to be upgraded in a rush in the future. By doing the upgrade now the Japanese power grid will be ready for the next half century of technological progress. |
| ENCRYPTED | No |
