Today, the demand for smart grid technology is at an all-time high. While some countries continue to rely on traditional electricity grid infrastructures, there are many countries that have made progress in rolling out large demonstrations of smart grid technologies. To foster common-ground thinking and the advancement of the technology, the IEEE Smart Grid World Forum (SGWF) in Geneva, Switzerland opens its doors to discussion, debate and collaboration, Dec. 6-7, 2012.
The forum hosts industry specialists, stakeholders and experts in the field of smart grid technologies who advocate the continued expansion of smart grids. With technology at the center, SGWF attendees will gather to exchange ideas, best practices and discuss the current state of the world’s electricity standards and energy policy.
Set to speak on the subject is Dr. Ronnie Belmans, full professor at the Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven in Belgium, IEEE Fellow and Executive Director of the Global Smart Grid Federation. As an authority on smart grids, Belmans’ research and teachings on electric power and energy systems are integral to the advancement and adoption of the technology.
“The world is faced with numerous challenges with regard to electricity transmission and distribution, ” explains Belmans. “With the recent onslaught of super storms and heat waves, massive power outages emphasize the vulnerabilities of today’s power grids.
“Hurricane Sandy in the United States is a perfect example of how a traditional electricity grid was unable to withstand the pressures of consumer demand before, during and after a storm.” Another example, he says, is a blackout that hit 600 million customers in India, leaving them without electricity for nearly a week.
“Prolonged power outages are the result of a grid that cannot handle damaging weather. Smart grid technology has only been used sparingly in the U.S., but it is most certainly the solution to a failing grid.” However, says Belmans, further financial support is required to fund smart grid development and meet overall demand.
At the SGWF, more than 60 smart grid experts will deliver a combination of short presentations and interactive panel discussions, while providing the opportunity for attendees to engage in discussions and exchange ideas; participants are invited to submit questions for debate in advance. During informal receptions, lunches and breaks, attendees will have the chance to network and meet with like-minded individuals working to advance smart grid technology.
“IEEE provides a uniquely broad view of smart grid technology during this two-day SGWF event,” says Belmans. “Attendees will hear discussions focusing on policy, integrated infrastructure, flexible demand, sustainability and smart cities, as well as funding opportunities for industry and academia, and much more.”
The progress and advancement of smart grid is here and it’s time to join the conversation. Register today to attend this annual assembly of thought leaders and industry experts who convene to maintain smart grid innovation and its evolution: http://www.ieee-smartgridworld.org/.
IEEE
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