Smart grid encounters edge computing: opportunities and applications

Abstract

Smart grids (SGs) are reforming towards utilizing massive data for operations and services. During this reform, the information and communication technologies (ICTs) play a critical role, especially for the computing model, which determines how data analytics in SG can be executed. Edge computing (EC), a novel computing paradigm innovation, has high potential to help with the digitization of SG. This paper seeks to provide a comprehensive review of interdisciplinary research on EC applications in SG. First, an in-depth analysis of EC, including the definition, architectures, characteristics, and key enabling technologies is conducted from the perspective of SG application requirements. Afterward, this paper systematically explores application scenarios of EC in SG based on its characteristics. Beyond that, the synergistic effect of the integration of EC and SG is also assessed: SG not only benefits from EC but also supports EC to become sustainable. Challenges and open questions are then investigated.