In the rapidly evolving energy landscape, the push towards a “dual carbon” goal—reducing carbon emissions and increasing carbon sinks—is driving unprecedented changes in how we generate, distribute, and consume electricity. At the heart of this transformation lies the modern smart distribution network, a concept explored in depth by a team of researchers led by Lou Qihe from the College of Economics and Management at North China Electric Power University. Their work, published in the journal Dianli jianshe, which translates to ‘Electric Power Construction,’ offers a roadmap for upgrading traditional distribution networks to meet the demands of the 21st century.
The energy sector is witnessing a surge in renewable sources and novel loads, such as distributed generation, electric vehicles, and controllable user-side resources. While these advancements are crucial for a sustainable future, they also present significant challenges. The fluctuation and randomness of these new energy sources and loads can strain the existing distribution networks, making it difficult to ensure safe operation and flexible regulation.
“The integration of renewable energy sources and new loads requires a fundamental shift in how we approach distribution networks,” said Lou Qihe. “We need to modernize and enhance the intelligence of these networks to accommodate these changes and ensure reliable power supply.”
The research team identified five key scenarios for upgrading conventional distribution networks to modern, intelligent systems. These include coordinated microgrid development, efficient integration of charging facilities, optimal utilization of new energy storage technologies, modernization of urban and rural distribution networks, and seamless coordination of generation, network, load, and storage. Each scenario presents unique challenges and opportunities, but all share a common goal: to create a more resilient, flexible, and intelligent distribution network.
One of the most promising aspects of this research is its potential to drive commercial innovation in the energy sector. As distribution networks become smarter, they will be better equipped to support clean energy consumption, accommodate diverse loads, and optimize resource allocation. This could lead to new business structures and operational models, opening up avenues for entrepreneurs and investors.
For instance, the efficient integration of charging facilities could revolutionize the electric vehicle market, making it more accessible and convenient for consumers. Similarly, the optimal utilization of new energy storage technologies could help balance supply and demand, reducing the need for costly infrastructure upgrades.
The modernization of urban and rural distribution networks is another area ripe for commercial impact. By upgrading these networks, energy providers can improve service reliability, reduce outages, and enhance customer satisfaction. This could lead to increased market share and revenue, as well as improved public perception.
The research also highlights the importance of seamless coordination among generation, network, load, and storage. This holistic approach could lead to more efficient energy use, reduced waste, and lower costs for consumers. It could also pave the way for new energy services, such as demand response programs and virtual power plants.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this research will be invaluable. By providing a clear roadmap for upgrading distribution networks, the team has laid the groundwork for a more sustainable, efficient, and intelligent energy future. The work, published in Dianli jianshe, serves as a call to action for energy providers, policymakers, and investors to embrace these changes and drive the transition to modern smart distribution networks. The future of energy is smart, and this research is a significant step towards realizing that future.
