FUTURES EXPO SERIES
UNSW SMART grid with SMART consumers
An equitable partnership for a green future
Research group
The UNSW Smart Grid with Smart Consumers initiative takes an innovative approach to electrical distribution systems . It acknowledges the challenges and opportunities presented by the integration of rooftop solar panels and electric vehicles ( EVs ) and aims to foster an equitable partnership between consumers and the energy sector .
The traditional method of setting uniform power export and import limits across the network has proven to be inequitable , failing to accommodate the diverse needs and contributions of individual consumers . In response , UNSW has pioneered the development of customer-centric import and export limits , employing sophisticated algorithms that consider a wide range of variables including the network ' s characteristics , the distribution and usage patterns of solar energy and electric vehicles , and consumer preferences .
This advanced method not only promotes fairness among consumers but also significantly enhances the system ' s capacity to incorporate a greater volume of renewable energy and support an increased number of electric vehicles . Initial research conducted on small distribution systems in NSW has demonstrated the effectiveness of these algorithms , paving the way for broader implementation in collaboration with distribution companies .
UNSW is committed to developing key features and algorithms that recalibrate import and export limits to align with consumer-centric values and advance the transition towards a more resilient and sustainable energy ecosystem .
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