Grid technology

An electrical grid is an interconnected network for delivering electricity from suppliers to consumers. Grids form part of the electrical infrastructure and provide us with our most important resource: electrical power.

Grids are currently undergoing major changes in terms of technology and setup. Energy is a growth market, especially as networks begin thinking about smart grid technology. A smart grid system allows for collaborative, two-way communication and electrical interaction between utilities and consumers, a process called "demand response". Utilities can selectively modify the amount of electricity they supply and consumers can adjust their electricity use to take advantage of market price conditions. Smart meters provide real-time pricing to customers, giving them an incentive to reduce electricity use during high-priced peak periods.

Electrical grids are undergoing major changes in terms of technology and efficiency. The main drivers of change are:

• Constantly rising energy prices
• Growing energy demand due to increasing use of power-consuming devices by customers
• Increasing awareness in society of energy saving as a way of protecting the environment, reducing pollution and saving money

Grid technology must evolve to meet these challenges. Smart meters, for example, efficiently measure energy consumption, are the first step toward developing a smart grid. They are already being deployed around the world and their use is expected to increase rapidly in the coming years.

Future success factors for smart grids include:

• Providing a grid which is at least as reliable as existing grids
• Ensuring technical security and consumer confidence
• Delivering economic value by replacing current grids with smart or technologically advanced grids

We support a large number of technology and service companies in the segment. We offer expertise in the energy sector, industry know-how and a profound understanding of technology and technological trends. Our key areas of focus are market entry strategies, growth strategies and business transformation projects in terms of business model re-engineering.