UK to lead Europe in smart grid tech thanks to new research centre

Europe’s first world-class smart grid research centre will open at the University of Strathclyde by the end of 2011 thanks to an alliance between the university and energy companies.

The Power Network Demonstration Centre, costing £12.5 million, will be a resource for testing new smart electrical technologies and also be involved in making the UK grid more reliable and more efficient – essential if the UK is to adapt successfully to the effects of climate change.

Smart grids are more reactive than the conventional centralised grid and are able to more easily incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar and wind that are reliant on intermittent weather patterns.

Smart grids would also use smart meters that show consumers the energy they use and its costs in real-time, so they can adapt their behaviour accordingly thus saving money and energy.

This technology will play a vital role in combating climate change according to Jim Sutherland, Network Development Director for ScottishPower – an energy supplier and co-owner of Scotland’s grid.

"In order to meet climate change targets, collaboration and innovation will be vital to move the UK towards a low-carbon economy.

“The Power Network Demonstration Centre represents a significant step forward for innovation in the electricity industry."

Last month Green Peace published a report calling for an overhaul to Europe’s “aging and inefficient power system” where they highlighted the need for micro grids (supplying power at a local level) and smart grids connected into a super grid.

Professor Jim McDonald, Principal of the University Strathclyde believes “it is critical that we remove the technical and economic barriers to connecting these technologies to our existing infrastructure.”

McDonald is confident the centre will have a role in this and “set new standards in electrical distribution”.

The centre will have a staff of 25 and be based in Cumbernauld, north east of Glasgow.

For further information:

Power Networks Demonstration Centre website

Battle of the Grids – Green Peace report

 

Front page image: PNDC artist's impression | University of Strathclyde

Body image: LarsSonderby | Flickr