Electricity distribution networks in the energy transition. EdEnmag No. 9 - 2020

Within a context which is characterised by the complexity of the integration of renewable energies, the development of decentralised energy production and storage means, the emergence of smart grids, and the aspiration of citizen for energy autonomy and self-consumption, this report addresses challenges faced by electric power networks to comply with energy transition. The author first discusses the impact of new production technologies, and more particularly the case of decentralised renewable energies (evolution of the role of distribution networks, integration of intermittent energies, support to self-consumption). He addresses current technological evolutions related to electricity storage and to electric mobility. The next part sheds a light on the digital revolution which will impact all the components of the electric power system, and the role of the distribution network manager, which makes cyber-safety a major stake for smart grids, puts the status and safety of personal data into question, and will require evolutions for dealer expertise and adaptation for the regulation. The conclusion discusses issues related to governance and pricing