Eaton and Smart Metering: Today’s future proof solution
Intelligent distribution network. Eaton’s Smart Metering Solutions offer energy companies complete, intelligent solutions that support step-by-step development into a complete Smart Grid. And, of course, you set the pace.
Current situation
An energy company supplies electricity via a network that features, to a greater or lesser degree, intelligent measuring equipment. Where possible, the energy company utilises several intelligent functions
Short term
The energy company supplies and receives electricity via a network that has 90% coverage with intelligent measuring equipment. It is quite standard for the energy company to use a large number of intelligent functions.
Medium term
Both the energy company and the end user supply electricity, and both use a complete, intelligent distribution network.
Dynamic, efficient and clean
The future heralds a shift from a passive to an extremely dynamic distribution network. Users will soon be able to draw on energy almost anywhere and new energy sources will supply energy to the network. In addition, new energy storage opportunities will open up, such as the batteries used in electric cars. We need to look at what quantities are consumed in which location and by whom, who delivers what, and how we can ensure that all parties act as efficiently and cleanly as possible.
Information and communication
Intelligent technology is added to the distribution network in order to steer all of these activities in the right direction and to keep things well organised. In fact, a communication network is integrated within the existing distribution network. Identifying all consumers and energy suppliers and measuring and recording their consumption and supply data keeps everything manageable. That’s the Smart Grid in a nutshell.
Integration of renewable energy sources
We will see renewable energy sources integrated on a large scale in order to comply with European regulations in 2020. Consumers will generate energy for their own use, and the surplus will be supplied back to the distribution network. The distinction between consumer and supplier becomes less distinct
Eaton brings benefits for Utilities
The energy companies will play an essential role both during and after the transitional process from passive to dynamic distribution network. The function of the network administrator becomes more important than ever.