This course has three main objectives:

to present the student a vision of how smart grids will transform the current electricity grids to reliable and sustainable modern energy systems;
to analyse the structure of typical power systems and, in particular, of existing electrical distribution grids as well as their basic operation conditions;
to show the progression state of studies and achievements on smart grid technologies in Italy by analyzing pilot projects implemented on existing distribution networks.

Upon completion of this course students will be able to:

understand the architecture of existing electrical power systems and their basic operation conditions;
develop appropriate models for electrical distribution systems;
perform distribution grid studies (power flow, short circuit etc.) by writing/using simple computer programs;
understand protection and automation of existing distribution networks;
understand the concepts of smart grid and microgrid, in comparison with conventional distribution grid, and identify their opportunities and barriers;
understand renewable energy systems and storage systems as well as their grid integration;
understand the integration of electrical vehicles with rechargeable batteries into distribution networks.