Future of Smart Grid with the Development in Nanotechnology: An Overview

Smart power grid is the future transformation of the current power systems into controlled two-way power flow networks. Smart grid allows the interactive service between customers and grid operators and permits fully integration of distributed and renewable energy resources into the electrical power system. The main objectives of the smart grid are to increase the efficiency, reliability and optimal use of renewable energy. Smart grid rate of implementation is beginning to accelerate with the rapid progress in the related technologies. At the top of these technologies is the nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is the science of changing and improvement of materials’ structures and characteristics in the nano-scale (nanometer is one billionth of a meter). With this nano-scale size, materials are expected to have unique properties. This paper presents a description for the applications and necessity of nanotechnology in the smart power grid devices and components. Improvements in the quality of smart power grid parts are based on its nano-structures’ modifications. This paper specifically overviews the possible applications and benefits of nanotechnology in the photovoltaic (PV) cells, wind turbines (WT), fuel cells, storage energy devices and smart sensors. Also the use of nanotechnology in the smart grid power electronics, computing and communications is summarized. This overview gives a simple frame for the future of smart grid.