electricity grid

The term "power grid" refers to a network of electrical transmission lines that connect multiple generating stations to various loads over a wide area. Electricity works through the movement of electrons, which are negatively charged subatomic particles. This movement, or flow of electric charge, is called electric current and is driven by a difference in electric potential known as voltage.12

A traditional power grid is a one-way system from power plants to customers with limited monitoring. In contrast, a "smart grid" is an advanced, electronically controlled system designed to improve efficiency, security, and reliability. It incorporates sensors, communication networks, and computers to enable "self-healing" capabilities, react to unforeseen events like outages, and integrate renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. Smart grids also allow for variable electricity rates based on supply and demand, potentially reducing costs for consumers.3