Introduction

The global energy landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by climate change concerns, the imperative for energy efficiency, and the rapid integration of renewable energy sources. In this context, Smart Grid Technologies and Applications are pivotal, representing the modernization of traditional electricity networks into intelligent, resilient, and interactive systems. A smart grid leverages advanced digital communication, sensors, automation, and control technologies to monitor and manage electricity flow in real-time, from generation to consumption. This paradigm shift enables bidirectional power flow, empowers consumers with greater control over their energy use, and facilitates the seamless integration of distributed energy resources like solar and wind power. Without embracing Smart Grid Technologies and Applications, nations risk lagging in energy security, economic competitiveness, and environmental sustainability, underscoring their critical role in the future of power delivery. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Smart Grid Technologies and Applications.

This intensive 10-day training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, utility professionals, system operators, policymakers, and anyone involved in the energy sector with the theoretical understanding and hands-on practical tools necessary to comprehend, design, implement, and manage smart grid solutions. Participants will gain a deep understanding of smart grid architecture, explore various communication technologies, learn about advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), and acquire skills in demand response, distributed energy resource (DER) integration, and cybersecurity for energy systems. The course will delve into topics such as energy storage systems, microgrids, electric vehicles and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, wide-area situational awareness, and the role of artificial intelligence in grid optimization. By mastering the principles and practical application of Smart Grid Technologies and Applications, participants will be prepared to contribute to the development of a more efficient, reliable, secure, and sustainable energy future.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Electrical Engineers
• Power System Operators
• Utility Managers and Engineers
• Energy Regulators and Policymakers
• IT and Communication Engineers in the Energy Sector
• Renewable Energy Developers
• Smart City Planners
• Researchers and Academics in Power Systems
• Consultants in the Energy Industry
• Technical Sales Professionals in Energy Technology

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts and evolution of smart grids from traditional grids.
• Learn about the architecture and key components of a modern smart grid.
• Acquire skills in analyzing various communication technologies for smart grid applications.
• Comprehend techniques for implementing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI).
• Explore strategies for integrating Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and energy storage.
• Understand the importance of Demand Response (DR) and active consumer participation.
• Gain insights into smart grid cybersecurity challenges and mitigation strategies.
• Develop a practical understanding of microgrids and their applications.
• Learn about electric vehicles (EVs) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) integration.
• Master wide-area situational awareness (WASA) and Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs).
• Acquire skills in applying smart grid concepts to distribution automation.
• Understand the role of data analytics and artificial intelligence in grid optimization.
• Explore the economic and regulatory aspects of smart grid deployment.
• Develop proficiency in assessing the benefits and challenges of smart grid adoption.
• Prepare to contribute to the planning and implementation of smart grid projects.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Smart Grids

• Definition and evolution from traditional power grids.
• Drivers for smart grid development: energy security, climate change, aging infrastructure.
• Key characteristics of a smart grid: two-way communication, self-healing, resilience.
• Benefits of smart grids: efficiency, reliability, sustainability, consumer empowerment.
• Global smart grid initiatives and trends.

Module 2: Smart Grid Architecture and Components

• Overview of smart grid layers: generation, transmission, distribution, consumption.
• Key components: smart meters, sensors, actuators, intelligent electronic devices (IEDs).
• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Energy Management Systems (EMS).
• Distribution Management Systems (DMS) and Outage Management Systems (OMS).
• Interoperability and standardization in smart grids.

Module 3: Communication Technologies for Smart Grids

• Role of communication networks in enabling smart grid functions.
• Wired communication technologies: Fiber Optics, Power Line Communication (PLC).
• Wireless communication technologies: Cellular (3G/4G/5G), WiMAX, Wi-Fi.
• Communication protocols: IEC 61850, DNP3, Modbus.
• Network architectures and reliability considerations.

Module 4: Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)

• Components of AMI: smart meters, communication networks, meter data management system (MDMS).
• Functions of smart meters: real-time data, remote connect/disconnect, power quality monitoring.
• Benefits of AMI for utilities and consumers.
• Data privacy and security issues in AMI deployment.
• Case studies of AMI rollouts and challenges.

Module 5: Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) Integration

• Types of DERs: solar PV, wind turbines, combined heat and power (CHP), fuel cells.
• Challenges of DER integration: intermittency, grid stability, reverse power flow.
• Grid codes and interconnection standards for DERs.
• Power electronics for grid integration of DERs.
• Optimizing DER dispatch and control.

Module 6: Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

• Importance of energy storage in smart grids.
• Types of ESS technologies: batteries (Li-ion, Flow), pumped hydro, compressed air, flywheels.
• Applications of ESS: peak shaving, load leveling, frequency regulation, renewable firming.
• Sizing and siting considerations for energy storage.
• Business models for energy storage deployment.

Module 7: Demand Response (DR) and Demand-Side Management (DSM)

• Principles of demand response: shifting or reducing energy consumption.
• Types of DR programs: price-based (time-of-use, real-time pricing) and incentive-based.
• Technologies enabling DR: smart appliances, home energy management systems.
• Benefits for grid operators and consumers.
• Consumer engagement and behavioral aspects of DR.

Module 8: Microgrids and Islanded Operations

• Definition and benefits of microgrids: resilience, energy independence, local control.
• Architecture of AC, DC, and hybrid microgrids.
• Control and protection strategies for microgrids.
• Grid-connected and islanded operation modes.
• Case studies of successful microgrid deployments.

Module 9: Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)

• Impact of EV charging on the grid.
• Smart charging strategies to mitigate grid impacts.
• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) concept: EVs as mobile energy storage.
• Technical and economic challenges of V2G integration.
• Policy and regulatory frameworks for EV and V2G adoption.

Module 10: Wide-Area Situational Awareness (WASA) and PMUs

• Importance of real-time grid visibility.
• Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs): technology and applications.
• Wide-Area Measurement Systems (WAMS) for grid monitoring and control.
• Using PMU data for fault detection, stability assessment, and oscillation damping.
• Data analytics for enhanced situational awareness.

Module 11: Smart Grid Cybersecurity

• Identifying critical infrastructure and cyberattack vectors in smart grids.
• Common cybersecurity threats: malware, denial of service, data manipulation.
• Security frameworks and standards (e.g., NIST Cybersecurity Framework).
• Best practices for securing smart grid components and communication networks.
• Incident response and recovery in cyberattacks.

Module 12: Big Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence in Smart Grids

• Role of big data in managing vast amounts of grid data.
• Data analytics techniques for grid optimization (e.g., load forecasting, anomaly detection).
• Application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in smart grids.
• AI for predictive maintenance, fault diagnosis, and demand-side management.
• Ethical considerations and data governance in AI applications.

Module 13: Distribution Automation and Fault Management

• Advanced Distribution Automation (DA) functionalities.
• Fault Detection, Isolation, and Restoration (FDIR) algorithms.
• Self-healing grid concepts.
• Volt/VAR optimization for energy efficiency.
• Integration of DA with DMS and other control systems.

Module 14: Economic and Regulatory Aspects of Smart Grids

• Business models for smart grid investment and deployment.
• Regulatory frameworks and incentives for smart grid adoption.
• Cost-benefit analysis of smart grid projects.
• Market mechanisms for distributed energy resources.
• Consumer protection and data ownership issues.

Module 15: Future Trends and Research in Smart Grids

• Emerging technologies: quantum computing, blockchain for energy transactions.
• The role of IoT (Internet of Things) in future grid development.
• Resilient and self-healing grids for climate change adaptation.
• International collaboration and smart grid interoperability.
• Pathways to a fully decarbonized and intelligent energy system.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.