Have you ever wondered why some cities can manage energy so effectively, reducing loss and lowering energy costs? Part of the answer lies in the Smart Grid, an electrical system that's transforming the way power is consumed in the smart city age. The Smart Grid is not merely a technical term; it's a concept that intelligently blends technology and data with energy management.

What is a Smart grid?

A Smart Grid is an intelligent electricity network that uses digital technology and communication systems to control, transmit, and distribute power. It enables real-time monitoring of electricity consumption, data analysis, and adaptive power supply based on actual demand. Unlike traditional power systems that rely solely on transmission lines and control panels, Smart Grid introduces two-way communication. This encourages both energy producers and consumers to participate in energy management, thus reducing losses and improving overall system efficiency. 

The Operating Principles of the Smart Grid

For an electricity system to be truly “smart,” multiple components must work together seamlessly. The operation of Smart Grid involves the following key processes:

• Sensing and Measurement: Sensors and measurement devices are installed along transmission lines and in homes to monitor power consumption levels and energy standards. This real-time data measurement is crucial for the system to understand its current status.
• Data Analytics: AI and software are used to analyse energy usage trends and forecast demand, allowing system operators to quickly decide whether to increase generation or reduce supply in specific areas.
• Integration of Renewables: The Smart Grid is designed to accommodate energy from renewable sources such as solar or wind, which typically have intermittent production. This intelligent system helps balance and seamlessly integrate these energy sources into the main network.
• Self-Healing and Optimisation: This function manages generated and consumed electricity volumes appropriately, reducing blackouts and energy loss. If a fault occurs at any point, the system can automatically isolate the damaged section and reroute power through other paths, ensuring a continuous and stable supply.

What Are the Benefits of Smart Grid?

The Smart Grid benefits not only utility providers but also all sectors of society in tangible ways, particularly in terms of sustainable energy usage. The beneficiaries can be divided into three main groups:

1. For Consumers (Smart Consumption)

• Reduced Electricity Bills via Usage Adjustment: Consumers can see real-time electricity usage data and adjust their appliance usage during off-peak times when tariffs are lower.
• Alerts for Excessive Electricity Use: Helps improve energy control, reducing the likelihood of short circuits or system overloads.
• Supports Clean Energy Use in Homes and Buildings: If solar rooftops are installed, the Smart Grid manages the energy generated and allows the excess power to be easily sold back to the system.

2. For Businesses (Operational Efficiency)

• Reduced Energy Loss in the System: Accurate monitoring and management significantly reduce energy loss during transmission and distribution.
• Increased Electricity Management Efficiency: Operators can better analyse and plan energy use, thereby lowering energy costs.
• Full Integration of Renewable Energy: Enables factories or large buildings using alternative energy sources to manage multiple energy sources.

3. For Society and the Environment (Sustainability and Resilience)

• Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Achieved by supporting renewable energy adoption and improving overall energy efficiency.
• Creates an Energy Database for Smart City Planning: Energy usage data is utilised for future urban planning and infrastructure development.
• Promotes Green and Sustainable Cities: Serves as an essential foundation for achieving national environmental goals.

Smart Grid is the Foundation of the smart and sustainable city at One Bangkok

The Smart Grid is an intelligent electrical network system that functions as the energy bedrock for One Bangkok. It was developed under the Green Smart City model. The use of the Smart Grid allows the city to manage energy more flexibly than traditional systems, support renewable energy usage, and promote sustainability for the city's infrastructure. This works in conjunction with various systems for maximum efficiency.

Central Utility Plant (CUP): The Heart of Utility Management

The Central Utility Plant (CUP) is the intelligent hub responsible for managing all utility systems, including cooling production, water management, and electricity control through Smart Grid. CUP analyses real-time data and applies advanced technologies to optimise power distribution and resource usage around the clock, ensuring consistently high efficiency.

District Command Center (DCC): The Hub for Data and Security

The District Command Center (DCC) is an intelligent command centre focused on safety, security, and disaster management. It gathers data from millions of sensors and over 5,000 CCTV cameras. Real-time data from the DCC supports strategic decision-making in conjunction with the CUP, ensuring that all infrastructure operates continuously and securely, even in critical situations.

Smart Grid is far more than an advanced power system. It represents a pathway towards intelligent and sustainable urban development, enabling smarter energy management, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing overall quality of life for people living and working in the city.

For those interested in smart and sustainable city concepts and environmentally driven innovation, One Bangkok stands as a leading model of sustainable urban management. Be part of a truly integrated urban experience where technology, sustainability, and lifestyle come together seamlessly across every space.

References:

1. What is a Smart Grid?: A Complete Guide. Retrieved on 3 December 2025 from https://e.huawei.com/at/knowledge/2024/industries/grid/what-is-smart-grid 
2. 13 Top Benefits of Smart Grid Technology for Modern Homes. Retrieved on 3 December 2025 from https://waltero.com/blog/electricity/benefits-of-smart-grid 
3. สมาร์ทกริด (Smart Grid) คืออะไร. Retrieved on 3 December 2025 from  https://erdi.cmu.ac.th/?p=3210