SIEW TechTable: What Will It Take to Revolutionise the Grid for a Sustainable Energy Future?

Hitachi Energy's Akilur Rahman on designing and building grid technologies that adapt to the evolving world.

Innovations in grid technology hold the key to ushering a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. The landscape of energy production and distribution is in constant flux, demanding a grid system that is not only adaptable but also forward-looking.

During the recent SIEW TechTable discussion on "Grid Technologies and Digitalisation—Co-Innovating for a Sustainable Energy Future", the need for grid technology to meet two crucial criteria emerged as the central theme. Leading this presentation was Akilur Rahman, Market Innovation Lead – South Asia & Chief Technology Officer – India, Hitachi Energy, a prominent expert in the field.

The question we confront is how to ensure that our grid systems can efficiently adapt and harness the potential of these emerging technologies. For the answer, Mr Rahman points to two key factors—digitalisation and power electronics, which are poised to shape the grid's future. Here are the takeaways:

1. Embracing technology for the grid to evolve.

   Grid innovations must address two essential needs: compatibility with existing grid designs, and the creation of future-ready grid connections.

   In his discussion on digitalisation, digital twins and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, Mr Rahman emphasised that the grid "has to adapt and embrace all of these technologies". These adaptations are vital as they address the complexities of diverse energy sources, load types, and distribution modes.

2. Power electronics could be the game changer for the future.

   Mr Rahman believes power electronics could be the game changer in grid technology. He underscored the transformative role of power electronics, especially in reimagining long-distance, high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems. This innovation promises to connect regions with diverse geographical make-ups while seamlessly accommodating new energy sources, including renewables.

   He explained that "today, we're using HVDC for transferring power from the remotest areas, whether it is on the mountains, the islands or the deserts. The (real) question is, how do we transfer the bulk power, the renewable power to the load center"? His message was clear. Power electronics will be instrumental in future power systems, enabling efficient connectivity and power transfer.

   Mr Rahman's insights pave the way for a greener and more technologically advanced power grid.

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