Smart Grid Technologies and Automation
1. Training Introduction
The evolution of power systems towards smart grids combines advanced communication, automation, and control technologies with conventional electricity networks to enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. This programme equips participants with knowledge of smart grid architectures, automation technologies, communication systems, and operational strategies, enabling them to design, implement and manage modern smart grid solutions.
Participants will gain hands-on experience with smart meters, SCADA, distribution automation, demand response, and grid analytics, preparing them to address the technical, operational, and strategic challenges in modern energy systems.
2. Training Objective
By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:
- Understand the concepts, components, and architectures of smart grids.
- Apply automation and control technologies for efficient grid operations.
- Integrate renewable energy and distributed resources into smart grids.
- Utilize communication and data analytics tools for monitoring and control.
- Design and implement demand response and energy management strategies.
- Evaluate the technical, operational, and economic benefits of smart grid deployment.
- Develop actionable strategies for smart grid modernization and digital transformation.
3. Targeted Group
This programme is ideal for:
- Power system engineers and planners
- Grid operators and control room personnel
- Automation and SCADA engineers
- Renewable energy and microgrid specialists
- Utility managers and decision-makers
- Energy consultants and technical analysts
- Graduate students specializing in power systems or electrical engineering
4. Course Duration
- Total Duration: 2 Weeks
- Weekly Commitment: 16 Hours (Lectures + Labs + Exercises)
Total Learning Hours: ~40–45 hours
5. Training Methodology
Blended learning approach combining:
- Instructor-led theoretical sessions
- Hands-on lab exercises and simulation studies
- Case studies from real-world smart grid projects
- Group workshops and problem-solving exercises
- Assignments and scenario-based exercises
- Capstone project integrating smart grid technologies
Assessment includes quizzes, lab reports, assignments, and a final capstone project.
6. Course Modules & Content
Module 1 — Introduction to Smart Grids
- Definition, objectives, and benefits of smart grids
- Evolution from conventional grids to smart grids
- Smart grid architecture and components
- Global trends and deployment examples
Activity: Map conventional grid vs. smart grid functionalities
Module 2 — Grid Automation Technologies
- Distribution automation (DA) concepts
- Automatic feeder and transformer controls
- Remote monitoring and fault detection
- Control strategies for reliability and efficiency
Hands-On: Simulate a distribution automation scenario
Module 3 — Communication & Data Systems
- Communication technologies (PLC, wireless, fiber optics)
- Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
- Data acquisition, telemetry, and monitoring
- Cybersecurity considerations in smart grids
Exercise: Design a communication network for a smart substation
Module 4 — Renewable Energy Integration
- Distributed generation and renewable integration challenges
- Impact on voltage, frequency, and power quality
- Smart inverter technologies and control
- Microgrid operation and hybrid energy systems
Workshop: Simulate renewable integration and control strategy
Module 5 — Smart Metering & Demand Response
- Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI)
- Real-time metering, billing, and analytics
- Demand response programs and load management
- Customer engagement and energy efficiency strategies
Activity: Model demand response scenario for peak load management
Module 6 — Energy Management & Analytics
- Energy management system (EMS) functions
- Load forecasting and optimization
- Big data and analytics for smart grids
- Decision support for operational efficiency
Lab: Analyze grid data and optimize dispatch decisions
Module 7 — Grid Reliability, Stability & Resilience
- Fault detection and self-healing grids
- Voltage and frequency control strategies
- Reliability assessment and contingency planning
- Grid modernization and resilience planning
Exercise: Develop a reliability improvement plan for a smart grid
Module 8 — Capstone Project: Smart Grid Implementation
- Apply concepts to a simulated or real smart grid scenario
- Integrate automation, communication, renewable, and EMS solutions
- Evaluate technical, operational, and economic impacts
- Present results and recommendations to peers and facilitators
Deliverable: Capstone project report and presentation
7. Expected Outcomes
Participants completing this programme will:
✔ Understand smart grid architectures, components and technologies
✔ Apply automation, control and communication tools for grid
operations
✔ Integrate renewable energy and distributed resources efficiently
✔ Implement demand response and energy management strategies
✔ Analyze data and operational performance for decision-making
✔ Evaluate technical, economic and reliability benefits of smart
grids
✔ Develop and present integrated smart grid solutions
8. Certificate of Completion
Participants who:
- Attend at least 80% of sessions
- Complete all module exercises and assignments
- Submit and present the capstone project
will receive a Certificate of Completion from:
FOTADE Training, Research and Resource Development Centre
Certificate Includes:
- Participant’s Full Name
- Programme Title: Smart Grid Technologies and Automation
- Duration & Completion Date
- Summary of Skills Acquired
- Official Seal & Signature of Programme Director
