Soft-system management framework for power supply and grid integration issues
Abstract
Purpose
The balance between power supply and demand gets more challenging when electrical networks switch from centralized thermal power plants to distributed renewable energy sources for power generation. Such problems present a diverse set of challenges that require a solution through system and control methods. Hence, the purpose of this study is to understand the issues faced by each actor in the power sector’s supply chain, which would restrict the stability of the power supply and quality of service.
Design/methodology/approach
This study provides a conceptual model, soft system methodology (SSM), for power supply management or grid integration issues through the mapping of identified issues with their possible solutions.
Findings
This study offers an analysis that uses methods of problem structuring to construct the major issues and measure technological advancements in the energy sector. This research highlights the need to integrate energy storage systems with the grid for the effective operation of the system to manage various power supply issues.
Research limitations/implications
SSM is used to establish a mechanism to manage grid integration problems by comparing established problems with their potential solutions. The resulting framework would help managers, researchers, policymakers, engineers and smart grid professionals to make the required and informed decisions on the management of grid integration issues and to form strategies fostering efficient and secure energy network.
Originality/value
The research is based on a conceptual framework for enhancing energy efficiency and integrated smart grid technology, which would contribute to a better supply of electricity and a more environmentally sustainable future.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors sincerely thank the editor and reviewers for their invaluable feedback which have greatly enhanced this work.
Funding: This research received no external funding.
Citation
Gupta, L. and Shankar, R. (2024), "Soft-system management framework for power supply and grid integration issues", Foresight, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/FS-11-2022-0145
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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