Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, announced a range of new smart grid solutions at Enlit Europe 2024, aimed at enhancing grid resiliency, flexibility, and alignment with net-zero goals.
With renewables expected to make up 35 per cent of Australia’s electricity by 2030, the transition to digitally enabled grids has become essential for integrating these resources effectively and managing emerging demands, the company reported.
Schneider Electric’s new technologies aim to address these needs by delivering end-to-end digital solutions that optimise energy flow across the grid.
“As we navigate the complexities of the energy transition, our focus is on delivering comprehensive, end-to-end solutions that speed up progress for all stakeholders in the electricity value chain,” said Frederic Godemel, EVP Power Systems and Services at Schneider Electric.
“The integration of smart grids and innovative digital technologies is essential for achieving a sustainable future.”
Among the highlighted advancements at Enlit were new capabilities for Schneider Electric’s Virtual Substations.
In collaboration with the Edge for Smart Secondary Substation Systems (E4S) Alliance, Schneider Electric demonstrated how its PowerLogic T300 RTU can now be virtualized on the E4S hardware platform.
This technology simplifies the design and enhances the functionality of substations, enabling smoother energy management and greater flexibility in grid operations.
Another key feature was Schneider’s new Net Zero Dashboard, integrated within its EcoStruxure ADMS and DERMS platforms.
The dashboard provides utilities with vital net-zero metrics, allowing them to measure emissions reductions and monitor decarbonisation efforts.
Schneider Electric said it is also working closely with several major utilities, including PG&E in the United States and European provider Elektrilevi, to implement solutions for managing grid complexity.
Through its EcoStruxure DERMS platform, Schneider Electric is helping these utilities address constraints arising from the rapid growth of distributed renewable assets.
In a bid to further strengthen grid resiliency, Schneider Electric has teamed up with AiDash, incorporating satellite and AI technology to provide real-time insights that help utilities prepare for extreme weather events.
This collaboration supports utilities in reinforcing their grids and adapting to evolving environmental conditions.
Schneider Electric’s partnership with Italian Distribution System Operator (DSO) Unareti also took centre stage.
Unareti has integrated Schneider’s EcoStruxure ADMS platform to optimise service delivery across Milan and Brescia.
Recognising the importance of accessible digital transformation solutions, Schneider Electric is rolling out new subscription packages for distribution system operators (DSOs), providing ongoing access to the latest features with each release.
The company also introduced its Active Plus Medium Voltage switchgear with EcoCare, a connected medium voltage system designed for remote monitoring and advanced analytics, which supports predictive maintenance strategies to prolong equipment lifespan.
“At Enlit Europe 2024, we highlighted our commitment to these advancements, inviting the collaboration of energy leaders to build a flexible and resilient landscape that maximises efficiency and deploys low-carbon technologies,” Godemel added.
“By investing in the Grids of the Future, we unlock the full potential of renewable energy and create a cleaner, more reliable energy system.”
