Grid connection

In electrical grids, a power system network integrates transmission grids, distribution grids, distributed generators and loads that have connection points called busses. A bus in home circuit breaker panels is much smaller than those used on the grid, where busbars can be 50 mm in diameter in electrical substations. Traditionally, these grid connections are unidirectional point to multipoint links. In distributed generation grids, these connections are bidirectional, and the reverse flow can raise safety and reliability concerns.^[1] Features in smart grids are designed to manage these conditions.

A premises is generally said to have obtained grid connection when its service location becomes powered by a live connection to its service transformer.

A power station is generally said to have achieved grid connection when it first supplies power outside of its own boundaries. However, a town is only said to have achieved grid connection when it is connected to several redundant sources, generally involving long-distance transmission.

See also

• Grid (electricity)
• Distributed generation
• Electric power transmission
• Electricity distribution
• Electricity retailing
• Independent System Operator
• Load management
• Smart meter

References

1. ^ Consortium on Energy Restructuring. "Introduction to the Business of Energy". Distributed Generation Educational Module. Virginia Tech, National Science Foundation. http://www.columbia.edu/~jeh1/2008/TwentyYearsLater_20080623.pdf. Retrieved 2008-11-22.