Cisco Smart Grid: Substation Automation Solutions for Utility Operations

Smart Grid promises to deliver a next generation power grid that allows utilities to manage the generation and consumption of power more efficiently. The US Department of Energy defines smart grid as "The electricity delivery system from point of generation to point of consumption integrated with communications and information technology for enhanced grid operations, customer services, and environmental benefits." While the definition of Smart Grid is subject to interpretation, it is clear that building an intelligent communications network is a foundation to building a Smart Grid. Utilities are investing in communications networks to improve their situational awareness of grid assets in order to control, automate, and integrate systems.