Intelli-grid: Moving towards automation of electric grid in India

Smart grid - the automation of electric grid is an emerging basket of interdisciplinary technologies, aimed towards bringing a revolution in the management of electricity networks. The benefits, risks and challenges involved in smart grid and compared with the existing grid are analysed so as to point out the motivational drivers for a change in electricity network. The constituents of smart grid, role of geographic information system and grid modernization index and the impact of projects that have been deployed globally are discussed. Special emphasis has been given on such projects in India. The article emphasizes on the importance of modernization of present-day utility grid for the generation of sustainable and reliable energy.