Introduction

The traditional electrical grid, designed for one-way power flow from large central power plants to consumers, is undergoing an unprecedented transformation. Facing challenges such as aging infrastructure, escalating demand, the imperative for decarbonization, and the rapid integration of distributed and intermittent renewable energy sources, utilities worldwide are embracing Electrical Grid Modernization Strategies. This multifaceted process involves upgrading infrastructure with advanced digital technologies, fostering bidirectional energy flow, enhancing resilience against physical and cyber threats, and empowering consumers with greater control over their energy use. Without proactive and comprehensive Electrical Grid Modernization Strategies, nations risk compromised energy security, increased operational costs, and an inability to meet climate goals, highlighting the critical importance of this evolving field in securing a sustainable energy future. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Electrical Grid Modernization Strategies.

This intensive 10-day training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, utility executives, system planners, policy makers, and technology developers with the theoretical understanding and hands-on practical tools necessary to understand, plan, and implement effective grid modernization initiatives. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the drivers and benefits of grid modernization, explore advanced technologies such as smart meters, energy storage, and microgrids, and acquire skills in managing cybersecurity risks, integrating renewable energy, and leveraging data analytics for optimized grid operations. The course will delve into topics such as Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS), demand response programs, electric vehicle integration, grid resilience planning, and the regulatory frameworks supporting grid transformation. By mastering the principles and practical application of Electrical Grid Modernization Strategies, participants will be prepared to lead the charge in creating a more efficient, reliable, resilient, and sustainable electrical grid that can meet the demands of the 21st century and beyond.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Electrical Engineers (Generation, Transmission, Distribution)
• Utility Executives and Managers
• Power System Planners and Consultants
• Grid Operators and Dispatchers
• Renewable Energy Project Developers
• Smart City Planners
• Energy Regulators and Policy Analysts
• IT/OT Integration Specialists
• Energy Technologists and Researchers
• Business Development Managers in the Energy Sector

Objectives

• Understand the key drivers, benefits, and challenges of electrical grid modernization.
• Learn about the core technologies and components that define a modern grid.
• Acquire skills in integrating distributed energy resources (DERs) effectively.
• Comprehend techniques for implementing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI).
• Explore strategies for enhancing grid resilience against various threats.
• Understand the importance of cybersecurity in a digitalized grid.
• Gain insights into Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS) and their role.
• Develop a practical understanding of microgrids and their applications.
• Learn about demand response and demand-side management programs.
• Master the role of energy storage systems in grid modernization.
• Acquire skills in leveraging data analytics and AI for grid optimization.
• Understand the impact and integration of electric vehicles (EVs).
• Explore regulatory and market frameworks supporting grid modernization.
• Develop proficiency in planning and evaluating grid modernization projects.
• Prepare to contribute to the strategic transformation of electrical grids.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Electrical Grid Modernization

• Definition and historical context of grid modernization.
• Key drivers: aging infrastructure, demand growth, climate change, distributed generation.
• Characteristics of a modern grid: smart, resilient, flexible, secure, clean.
• Benefits of modernization: efficiency, reliability, sustainability, consumer empowerment.
• Global trends and national initiatives in grid modernization.

Module 2: Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)

• Components of AMI: smart meters, communication networks, meter data management systems (MDMS).
• Evolution from Automated Meter Reading (AMR) to AMI.
• Benefits for utilities (operational efficiency, outage management) and consumers (energy awareness).
• Challenges in AMI deployment: data volume, cybersecurity, consumer privacy.
• Role of AMI in enabling demand response and smart home technologies.

Module 3: Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) Integration

• Types of DERs: solar PV, wind, battery storage, combined heat and power (CHP).
• Challenges of high DER penetration: intermittency, bidirectional power flow, voltage fluctuations.
• Grid codes and interconnection standards for DERs.
• Smart inverter functionalities for grid support.
• Hosting capacity analysis for DER integration.

Module 4: Energy Storage Systems (ESS) in Modern Grids

• Importance of energy storage for grid flexibility and resilience.
• Technologies: batteries (Li-ion, Flow), pumped hydro, compressed air, flywheels.
• Applications: peak shaving, load leveling, frequency regulation, renewable firming.
• Sizing, siting, and operational strategies for ESS.
• Economic and regulatory aspects of energy storage deployment.

Module 5: Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS)

• Overview of ADMS functionalities: SCADA, Outage Management System (OMS), Distribution Automation (DA).
• Advanced applications: Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR).
• Volt/VAR Optimization (VVO) for energy efficiency.
• Integration of ADMS with other utility enterprise systems.
• Enhancing distribution grid reliability and efficiency.

Module 6: Grid Resilience and Hardening

• Definition of grid resilience: ability to withstand and recover from disruptions.
• Threats to grid resilience: extreme weather, cyberattacks, physical attacks.
• Strategies for grid hardening: undergrounding, stronger infrastructure.
• Microgrids and islanding capabilities for localized resilience.
• Black start capabilities and restoration planning.

Module 7: Cybersecurity for Modern Grids

• Identifying critical infrastructure and cyberattack vectors in smart grids.
• Cybersecurity frameworks and standards (e.g., NERC CIP, NIST).
• Best practices for securing SCADA, ADMS, and DER communications.
• Threat detection, incident response, and recovery planning.
• Supply chain security for grid equipment and software.

Module 8: Microgrids and Community Energy Systems

• Definition and benefits of microgrids: energy independence, resilience, local control.
• Architecture of AC, DC, and hybrid microgrids.
• Control and protection strategies for microgrids.
• Grid-connected and islanded operation modes.
• Role of microgrids in smart cities and critical infrastructure.

Module 9: Demand Response (DR) and Demand-Side Management (DSM)

• Principles of demand response: incentivizing consumers to modify energy consumption.
• Types of DR programs: price-based (time-of-use) and incentive-based.
• Technologies enabling DR: smart appliances, home energy management systems.
• Role of DERMS in managing demand flexibility.
• Consumer engagement strategies for DR programs.

Module 10: Power Electronics and Grid Edge Devices

• Role of power electronics in modernizing the grid: inverters, converters.
• Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) for grid control.
• High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) for long-distance transmission and grid interconnection.
• Smart transformers and their capabilities.
• The proliferation of intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) at the grid edge.

Module 11: Data Analytics, AI, and Machine Learning for Grid Optimization

• The exponential growth of grid data from smart meters, sensors, and PMUs.
• Big data analytics techniques for load forecasting, anomaly detection, predictive maintenance.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications in grid operations.
• AI for fault diagnosis, asset management, and optimal dispatch.
• Data governance and privacy considerations.

Module 12: Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Grid Integration

• Impact of EV charging on distribution grid capacity and peak demand.
• Smart charging strategies and managed charging.
• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology: EVs as mobile energy storage for grid services.
• Planning for EV charging infrastructure deployment.
• Policy and regulatory frameworks for EV integration.

Module 13: Regulatory and Market Frameworks for Modernization

• The role of regulators and policymakers in driving grid modernization.
• Incentives and cost recovery mechanisms for utility investments.
• Market design for DER participation and ancillary services.
• Grid code evolution to accommodate new technologies.
• Funding mechanisms for grid modernization projects.

Module 14: Project Management and Implementation Strategies

• Stages of a grid modernization project: planning, design, implementation, operation.
• Stakeholder engagement and communication.
• Risk management in complex infrastructure projects.
• Change management for organizational transformation.
• Case studies of successful grid modernization initiatives.

Module 15: Future Trends and Emerging Technologies

• Blockchain for decentralized energy trading and peer-to-peer energy.
• Quantum computing's potential impact on grid optimization.
• Digital twin technology for real-time grid modeling and simulation.
• Hydrogen economy integration with the electrical grid.
• The concept of a self-healing grid and autonomous operations.

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.