本文为英国智能电网发展现状的概述。文中介绍了智能电网发展期间的相关定义、政策和技术驱动因素、激励机制、技术重点和行业发展情况，并特别详细说明了低碳网络基金和电网创新竞赛项目，展示了智能电表的相关部署情况。这些电力投资和智能电表安装将共同打造一个更加可测、可控的自动集成式电网。本文主要关注的是配电网络、受益于改进信息和通信技术的供电商与用户间的实时信息流及互动、有功潮流管理、需求管理和蓄能。从英国智能电网计划中取得的经验将为英国和其他国家未来智能电网的发展提供可贵的指导。

This paper presents an overview of the current status of the development of the smart grid in Great Britain (GB). The definition, policy and technical drivers, incentive mechanisms, technological focus, and the industry´s progress in developing the smart grid are described. In particular, the Low Carbon Networks Fund and Electricity Network Innovation Competition projects, together with the rollout of smart metering, are detailed. A more observable, controllable, automated, and integrated electricity network will be supported by these investments in conjunction with smart meter installation. It is found that the focus has mainly been on distribution networks as well as on real-time flows of information and interaction between suppliers and consumers facilitated by improved information and communications technology, active power flow management, demand management, and energy storage. The learning from the GB smart grid initiatives will provide valuable guidelines for future smart grid development in GB and other countries.