ECE4886 · Smart grids

Overview

This unit provides comprehensive knowledge about the smart grid and how it should be operated and protected to improve sustainability and energy savings. The core of the unit is intelligent infrastructure for the smart grid and its heightening vulnerability, and how to protect it effectively. The basic economic fundamentals of power systems and conventional and renewable power generation in regulated and deregulated environments are first introduced. The basic concepts of intelligent control, application of intelligent agents in grid technology, and intelligent components commonly used in smart grids are extensively discussed afterwards. Also discussed is how distribution networks adapt to intermittent energy sources, such as solar and wind, through the use of smart grids, emerging technologies and energy storage systems. The unit will conclude by defining the smart grid's concept, design and purpose, reviewing current and relevant technologies developed, assessing its vulnerabilities to a cyber-attack, and identifying effective protective mechanisms for the grid.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Electrical and computer systems engineering Minor: Decarbonisation and net zero Minor: Electric vehicle technology Minor: Power and energy systems engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60% This unit contains threshold hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Understand fundamental knowledge of power systems and generation.
2. Describe the basic concepts and fundamentals of smart grid technologies and their corresponding role in renewable integration and power system operation.
3. Design intelligent power systems using grid technology.
4. Analyse power system operational characteristics and constraints in the presence of smart grid technologies to identify potential security risks and protective measures to ensure system integrity and supply reliability.
5. Describe the required changes in power distribution networks and energy storage systems to accommodate intermittent energy sources such as wind and solar.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester, typically comprising a mixture of 3 - 6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6 - 9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.