EnergyDigital Magazine April 2023 | Page 50

INDUSTRY X . 0
damages to a minimum . Transitioning to smarter grids based on data is crucial to the shift towards greener energy . Smart grids can accommodate up to 70-80 % decarbonised power generation mix . It ’ s estimated that two-thirds of efficiency potential remains untapped , by leveraging digital technologies , grids can be improved with sustainable materials while reducing costly disruption .
The critical role of energy storage solutions and other DERs play in creating a decentralised grid Luckily , Distributed Energy Resources ( DER ) connections to the grid are rapidly increasing . While grids were initially designed for continuous , centralised energy production , today ’ s consumers seek more control over their energy , driving the presence of DERs . These Grids of the Future enable sustainability because they can better incorporate DERs to improve resilience . They adapt faster , are more responsive to weather crises , are sustainable and reliable , and can reduce operational costs with predictive maintenance strategies .
To put it into context , the IEA estimates that , from 2017-2020 , there were 179GW of distributed solar added , while electric vehicle stock tripled to over 11 million . The convergence of digital solutions , combined with more leaders looking for sustainable offerings mean we can offer smarter , interoperable solutions and systems at scale .
We have already seen various types of DERs being used like solar and wind . They allow a variety of renewable clean energy sources to be integrated into the grid . With six times more electricity expected to come from renewable sources by 2040 , DERs offer a resilient solution that is safe and sustainable .
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