Uedem is becoming smart: Digital power grid for a secure energy future!

Uedem is becoming smart: Digital power grid for a secure energy future!

In Uedem, the power supply is becoming more intelligent: Westnetz GmbH is digitizing the local network station at the town hall, a step into the future of energy supply. This initiative aims to not only improve control of the power grid but also provide real-time information on power distribution. Mayor Rainer Weber emphasizes the importance of this modern infrastructure, especially with regard to climate protection and security of supply. This new digital station, which includes more powerful technology and a larger transformer, ensures that the e-charging stations in the region can also be adequately supplied. The old station was replaced by a modern system, which is part of a comprehensive digitization offensive that already includes 14 local network stations in Uedem and over 2,400 stations in the entire Westnetz coverage area Lokalklick.eu reported.

But what does that mean for citizens? The new digital local network stations convert medium voltage into standard household low voltage and are equipped with technology that transmits live data via mobile communications or fiber optics. This real-time analysis of the power grid enables a quick response to disruptions. Smart systems detect undesirable events immediately and help minimize downtime. The use of these digital stations is also crucial as the integration of renewable energies and increasing electricity consumption from heat pumps and electric vehicles bring new challenges for the grid infrastructure.

The vision of smart grids

If you look ahead, you can see the trend: by 2030, 80% of Germany's electricity needs should be covered by renewable energies. This challenge is being addressed by the federal government as part of the Easter package, which was adopted in summer 2022. The concept of “smart grids” is a central element. These intelligent networks enable a bidirectional flow of electricity between decentralized producers, such as photovoltaic systems, and consumers. The use of smart technologies, including intelligent metering and automation, plays a key role in improving grid reliability and operational efficiency, such as energie.de determines.

It's not just about generating energy. The digital infrastructure also supports demand-based control of the power grid and helps to avoid grid bottlenecks. The new Section 14a of the Energy Industry Act promotes flexible network control that is aimed at the mobility and heating transition without endangering the stability of the network.

Technological advances and their benefits

The technologies necessary to realize this vision include, among others, smart meters for real-time consumption measurement, sensors for automatic grid control and systems supported by AI. This development not only benefits utilities, but also consumers. The latter can actively participate in the energy supply, for example through their own consumption of solar energy, and benefit from flexible tariffs that can save costs.

However, the challenges associated with implementing these systems cannot be underestimated. High infrastructure costs, data protection and adapting to regulatory frameworks represent hurdles that need to be overcome. Nevertheless, the future of smart grids is promising and could promote a greener, more efficient and more sustainable energy supply, such as envelio.com shows.