|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
. | ![]() |
. |
|
![]() |
![]() by Staff Writers Seoul, South Korea (SPX) Jul 17, 2014
What does it mean to be 'smart' as defined by modern standards? Centuries ago, it was smart to pull a cart by or ride atop a horse. Today, that's considered more a luxury or novelty experience. Horse-drawn locomotion is no comparison to the power of steam, electricity, etc. However, through time and observation of by-products, humanity sought other ways to unite the need for transportation with increased kindness to animals and maintenance of the earth's resources and atmosphere. The Gangnam district of Seoul, South Korea is befitting for envisioning a future with a smarter application of power at hand, with better methods of leveraging needed resources, redefining what it means to be 'smart.'
What is 'Smart'? Laptop computers know when to activate fans, houses know when to alert police and fire departments, and in parts of South Korea, electric grids know how to enact efficient, safe, and economical use of provided resources.
Gangnam Style A number of major points make Gangnam's grid something to marvel at: + Power platforms are monitored centrally; the amount of usage is observed in real time, with failures addressed and repairs enacted instantly. + Commercial, personal, and industrial entities tailor engagement and use, saving money as well as resources. + Main grids allocate energy and observe the number of machines connected; the main system is never overwhelmed or a given machine derailed of system resources. Smart grid technology offers a lot of wondrous sentiments regarding home improvement and interaction, enabling owners to summons electrical resources to apropos products in real time for optimal budgeting.
Smart Integration Of course, nations and science continue to observe unique innovations, such as what is taking place in the Gangnam district of South Korea, but integration may or may not be 'smart' depending on present situations. For example, particular electricity grids here in the UK, used for over 50 years, initially required coal, then evolving to nuclear and gas-generated power. In other areas, councils leverage wind power for a gentler reliance on Earth. Some observe the evolution hosting continuous improvement, yet others, noting the implementations of the Koreans, hardly think the evolution to date has been 'smart.'
Online Efficiencies
The US Approach to 'Smart' Energy For example, the US Department of Energy has invested more than $7 billion toward smart grid projects around the nation. In Maine, according to government data, meter cost operations decreased by 80% with annual savings equalling over $6 million. If 'smart' integration is working in relation to large-scale projects, more homeowners may follow suit. For instance, are solar panels worth it? For many, it's a well-greeted option to measure whether making the switch saves money. Moreover, projections of savings help align good intentions with actual, bottom-line savings.
Economy of Scale A pop song drew the world's attention to the Gangnam district years ago. Now, it's use of smart grids to channel energy raise brows. If it will raise increased interest of governments and inspire more smart grids remains to be seen. Carol Riaz loves her career researching energy concerns and innovative solutions. With a keen eye on renewable energy sources, she greatly enjoys blogging about her research and insights into the future of energy in the modern world.
Related Links -
|
![]() |
|
The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2014 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. Privacy Statement All images and articles appearing on Space Media Network have been edited or digitally altered in some way. Any requests to remove copyright material will be acted upon in a timely and appropriate manner. Any attempt to extort money from Space Media Network will be ignored and reported to Australian Law Enforcement Agencies as a potential case of financial fraud involving the use of a telephonic carriage device or postal service. |