Page 371 - From Smart Grid to Internet of Energy

336 From smart grid to internet of energy

information and communication technologies (ICTs), energy distribution systems
and operators as well as distributed generation systems [1].
On the other hand, the SGs which have been introduced as the new generation
powergridsystemhaveattractedgreatinterestfrombothacademiaandindustry[5].
The SGs target a modern and exclusive vision integrating power systems, commu-
nication networks and smart metering systems [6]. Unlike conventional power grid
structures, the SGs allow bidirectional flows of energy and communication signals
to present more reliable, secure and efficient grid structure. Even though this mod-
ern concept offers remarkable advantages, current researches indicate that the con-
ceptisinsufficientagainstsomeissuessuchasincreasingcomplexityandinstability
of power grids. Despite the SGs are able to manage only one type of energy (only
electricity), there exist different types of energy such as electromagnetic, thermal
and chemical. Another important issue for the SGs is the use of current power dis-
tribution grids that limit the two-way electricity flow possibility of SG systems. In
addition,thissituationleadstosomeproblemsonrouting,schedulingandallocation
of energy flow processes [1, 2]. In order to overcome these issues, a new concept
called“EnergyInternet(EI)”hasbeenintroducedwhichintendstoimproveSGsys-
tems by including various energy forms and new capabilities. The differences
between EI and SG concepts can be sorted out as follows [1, 2].
l While SGs perform regional system control constantly, EI allows accessing
distributed generation (DG) and distributed energy storage systems.
l SGs mostly point out centralized power and integrate limited type energies
whereas EI supports different energy types involving nuclear, solar, tidal,
wind and so on.
l Communication systems and conventional power systems are effective in
the SGs while Internet and additional information networks are in the EI.
l Whereas SGs contain communication, information and control technolo-
gies, EI concept combines smart metering, smart monitoring, energy distri-
bution and auto adjust controlling technologies.
l Furthermore, EI supports plug-and-play interfaces to enable energy and
information sharing in various ways. SGs deliver energy only over current
power grid systems.
This chapter provides an outlook for the EI systems. First of all, fundamental tar-
gets and requirements of this vision are analyzed by taking into account commu-
nication technologies and other components. Then, the most important
components of the EI systems are introduced. Recent developments about energy
routers, information systems and network systems of EI systems are also investi-
gated. In addition, potential communication technologies for EI systems are ana-
lyzed and comparison of EI communication systems with other existing
communication systems such as Internet, SGs and so on is provided. Furthermore,
theessentialpartsoftheEIsystemsareexaminedinadetail.Besides,severalissues
affectingEI systems are introduced and potential solutions for these issues are also
discussed.