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Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
Available online 27 August 2022
2211-467X/© 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-
nc-nd/4.0/).
Challenges and potentials of implementing a smart grid for Pakistan’s
electric network
Muhammad Amir Raza
a
,
b
,
*
, Muhammad Mohsin Aman
a
,
b
, Abdul Ghani Abro
a
,
b
,
Mohsin Ali Tunio
c
, Krishan Lal Khatri
a
, Muhammad Shahid
d
a
Department of Electrical Engineering, NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, 75270, Sindh, Pakistan
b
Centre for Advanced Studies in Renewable Energy, NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, 75270, Sindh, Pakistan
c
Department of Electrical Engineering, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology SZAB Campus, Khairpur Mir’s, 66020, Sindh, Pakistan
d
Department of Electronic Engineering, Dawood University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, 74800, Pakistan
ARTICLE INFO
Keywords:
Power sector
Smart technologies
Energy sources
Smart grid model
Integrated energy management system
Pakistan
ABSTRACT
The power sector of Pakistan is facing many issues such as departmental mismanagement, huge dependence on
imported fossil fuels, the greater cost of power generation, lower production of energy along with old monitoring
and controlling mechanism equipped with outdated devices. These all issues are responsible for energy crises in
the country for the last two decades. The motive of this paper is to implement a smart grid model as per National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) interoperability (protocols and standards, release 4.0) in Pakistan’s
electric network for the efcient management of an integrated energy system. In this regard, discusses the
current condition of Pakistan’s power sector for smart grid integration. Issues and challenges are presented for
smart grid deployment with possible approaches to tackle these problems. Implement smart grid model and its
synopsis with the help of available smart technologies and energy resources that are responsible to interconnect
the power sector organizations and national power system. The implemented model and its synopsis are eval-
uated using SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threads) and STEEPLE (Social, Technical, Envi-
ronmental, Economic, Political, Legal, and Ethical) analysis. In this paper, the authors nd the smart grid as the
best option and shows that how smart grid technology can be implemented in Pakistan and how this technology
can manage the integrated energy system efciently.
1. Introduction
In the early 19th century, the rst power network was commissioned
consisting of vertically integrated three components includes power
generation, transmission, and distribution [1]. Later grid stations
become matured in the 20th century and delivered power to potential
consumers but electricity ow was in one way [2]. The concept of en-
ergy metering on the xed tariff was available at that time and recorded
energy consumption for proper billing of limited power network [3].
Unfortunately, in the last few decades, the demand of energy has
increased many folds due to rapid urbanization and population [4].
Hence the supply is not sufcient to meet the growing energy demand as
a result the reliability and quality of the supply become poor [5]. As such
the large industrial and commercial sectors needed reliable and
high-quality power [6]. Later in the 21st century, many changes have
been noticed in the electrical grids and among them, the most impacting
are [7–11];
1. Development of embedded generation through renewable sources at
small and medium scale.
2. Development of hybrid electrical vehicles.
Abbreviations: SWOT, Strength; Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threads; STEEPLE, Social; Technical, Environmental; Economic, Political; Legal, and Ethical; NTL,
Non-technical losses; TLs, Technical Losses; WCT, Wireless Communication Technologies (WCT); ICT, Information and Communication Technologies; EST, Energy
Storage Technologies; T&D, Transmission and Distribution.
* Corresponding author. Department of Electrical Engineering and Centre for Advanced Studies in Renewable Energy (ASURE), NED University of Engineering and
Technology Karachi, 75270, Sindh, Pakistan.
E-mail addresses: amir.eed.neduet@gmail.com (M.A. Raza), mohsinaman@neduet.edu.pk (M.M. Aman), ghani@neduet.edu.pk (A.G. Abro), mohsinali@muetkhp.
edu.pk (M.A. Tunio), engrkrishan@yahoo.com (K.L. Khatri).
Contents lists available at ScienceDirect
Energy Strategy Reviews
journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/esr
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esr.2022.100941
Received 13 January 2022; Received in revised form 1 August 2022; Accepted 16 August 2022
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
2
3. Integration and coordination of large power plants and develop a
large power pool.
There are some changes made in the old electrical grid to modernize
the infrastructure and introduced the concept of “Smart Grid” [12].
Smart grid is considered as the reliable, adaptable, resilient, and secure
alongside it has ability to accommodate generation technologies,
changing loads, and operating business models. Modernization in the
electrical grid will bring new economic opportunities and capabilities
for the electric utilities in Pakistan and also it provides customers with
improved power ow control, easy access to cyber security protection,
and data. Grid modernization will also require new informational and
physical capabilities to manage and observe the incipient and progres-
sive complex dynamics. Interoperability (protocols and standards,
release 4.0) is the crucial enabler of these needed capabilities. In this
regard, NIST institution was founded in 1901 and is now working under
the United State Department of Commerce (U.S DoC) for developing grid
modernization policies in the United States. The NIST US DoC shall have
the primary responsibility to coordinate the development of a frame-
work that includes protocols and model standards for information
management to achieve interoperability of smart grid devices and sys-
tems [99]. The NIST DoC has dened a smart grid as “an electricity
network that can cost efciently integrate the behavior and actions of all
users connected to it – generators, consumers and those that do both – to
ensure economically efcient, the sustainable power system with low
losses and high levels of quality and security of supply and safety” [99].
Originally the NIST DoC smart grid conceptual model was introduced in
2010, the updated smart grid conceptual model (2021) is given in Fig. 1
which reects large increases in the number and types of distributed
energy resources (DERs) used throughout the grid, the increasing
importance and automation of distribution systems, new customer in-
teractions and assets, and the role of service providers in the distribution
system [99]. The difference between the conventional and modern grid
operation is shown in Fig. 2 [13,14]. Smart Grid is a concept for trans-
forming the electric power grid by using advanced automatic control
and communications techniques and other forms of information tech-
nology. It integrates innovative tools and technologies from generation,
transmission and distribution all the way to consumer appliances and
equipment. This concept integrates energy infrastructure, processes,
devices, information and markets into a coordinated and collaborative
process that allows energy to be generated, distributed and consumed
more effectively and efciently. The NIST US DoC framework and
roadmap for Smart Grid interoperability standards, release 4.0 identies
seven (7) key domains of smart grid as listed in Table 1 [99].
With the advent of the smart grid, the power sector of all developed
nations went under the dynamic revolution [15]. The smart grid allows
two-way communication, it also facilitates energy integration through
advanced information and telecommunication technologies and pro-
vides real time data related to information and electricity ows between
the energy consumers and suppliers [16]. The smart grid also provides
automation from power generation to the nal consumers [17]. In-depth
analysis has been performed by the NIST US DoC on the smart grid and
examined that the energy planners, Governments of developing and
developed countries, and stakeholders will value the implementation of
a smart grid that brings improvements in the seven technical areas as
listed in Table 2 [4,18–21].
In light of above discussion, the smart grid interoperability (pro-
tocols and standards) are used and followed in designing and imple-
menting a smart grid in Pakistan’s electric network. This will provide
sustainable energy development in the country and will help in creating
an integrated energy management system. In this regard, the objectives
of this research are as follows;
a) To analyze the current condition of Pakistan’s power sector in the
context of energy supply and demand.
b) Assess the issues, challenges and potentials for the implementation of
smart grid in Pakistan.
c) Discuss the availability of smart technologies and energy resources
for smart grid deployment.
d) Implement the smart grid model and its synopsis with help of NIST
smart grid interoperability (protocols and standards, release 4.0).
e) To stabilize the economy of Pakistan through the deployment of
smart grid technology.
1.1. Background and motivation
The developed regions especially Europe and United States have
changed the old power system and adopted the new smart grid tech-
nology for the sustainable power system operation [22]. The motivating
factors for the smart grid deployment in the developed regions are the
use of dispersed generation through renewable resources and the
adoption of energy efciency programs for long term sustainable
development [23].
In comparison to the developed nations, the developing and under-
developed countries are facing energy crises and also lacking in utilizing
the domestic energy resources for sustainable economic development.
So, such countries must take steps for adopting modern technologies
depending upon the nature of the electric network because the smart
grid has a broader scope with several approaches. Therefore, it is
mandatory to evaluate the possibility of implementing the smart grid in
Pakistan’s electric network. Once baseline studies identify the key re-
quirements and their expected outcome, a path connecting them can be
established. The path will provide a complete roadmap, step-by-step
guidance and organizes our milestones in line with the future desired
outcome. The roadmap will also determine what types of benets are
expected in the future based on international trends.
The main players of Pakistan’s electric network identied and real-
ized the signicance of the smart grid and determined to construct a
Fig. 1. Updated conceptual model of NIST smart grid interoperability (pro-
tocols and standards, release 4.0).
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
3
roadmap. The major aim is to identify the possibility of implementing
the smart grid as per NIST smart grid interoperability (protocols and
standards, release 4.0) for the integrated energy management system
and its possible benets for Pakistan’s electric network. The results of
this study are the rst version of Pakistan’s smart grid roadmap.
1.2. Research framework
The research ow diagram of this research is shown in Fig. 3.
Next section 2 provides brief overview of existing infrastructure of
Pakistan’s power sector and identies the energy needs of power dis-
tribution companies. Section 3 is based on the discussion of issues and
challenges for the deployment of smart grid in Pakistan. Discusses the
benets provided by smart grid technology to overcome the issues and
challenges. In addition, the availability of smart technologies and energy
resources is checked in Pakistan for smart grid integration. In section 4
smart grid model and its synopsis is implemented as per NIST smart grid
interoperability (protocols and standards, release 4.0) in Pakistan’s
power sector. Detailed evaluation of smart grid model and its synopsis is
performed using the management tools like SWOT and STEEPLE. Future
recommendations and conclusion are given in section 5 and 6.
2. Review of existing literature on historical development and
current condition of an electric network of Pakistan
After the independence of Pakistan in 1947, regional governments
were responsible for energy management and production until the
inception of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) in
1958 [24]. In later years, the indigenous energy resources are identied
and were dedicated for only power generation. At that time, the idea of
energy integration could not get any importance pertaining to fast ur-
banization and other expansion of the economic sector till the 1980s
[24]. WAPDA attained maximum support at national and international
sectors pertaining to nancing energy projects and technical help in the
development of new power generation plants. During that era, technical
studies were evaluated named Lieftchinek-Report-1967 (New plant sites
are identied) and RESPAK-Model-1988 (Analysis of energy fore-
casting) to add-on 5-year plans announced by the Government of
Pakistan (GOP) [25]. However, till 1994 no formal policy was
announced by GOP but then announced lacked in the approach of en-
ergy integration and were inconsistently followed by inappropriate
technical implementation issues [26]. In 1998, the power system
restructured with the formulation of Pakistan Electric Power Company
(PEPCO), priority given to WAPDA (served country), and K-electric
(served Karachi zone). However, in 2008, PEPCO was merged into its
parent organization, WAPDA [27]. Despite of such advancements in
Pakistan’s energy and power (E&P) sector, the country is facing energy
crises since 2007 due to improper management of electricity networks
and increasing user number [28]. At present, the Ministry of Energy
(MOE) comprises two divisions named petroleum and power division.
Further organizational functions of the E&P sector are described in
Table 3 [28].
Fig. 2. (a,b). Difference between the conventional and modern grid operation.
Table 1
Seven key domains of smart grid interoperability (protocols and standards,
release 4.0).
S.
No
Domains of Smart Grid Services and roles of smart grid domains
1 Markets domain System outcome of economic mechanisms can be
optimized by the participants and facilitators in
electricity markets.
2 Service Provider
domain
This domain helps customers by providing
services to electric utilities.
3 Operations domain Responsible for managing the electricity ows.
4 Customer domain Customers (Commercial, Residential, and
Industrial) may also generate, store, and manage
the use of energy.
5 Distribution domain Manages electricity to and from customers
(distributors) and also generate and store
electricity.
6 Transmission domain Manages high voltages and also generate and
store electricity.
7 Generation including
DER domain
Power generation followed traditional path in
electricity market like generation technologies
connected with transmission system. Generation
including DER refers generation, storage and
customer demand response.
Table 2
Smart grid implementation bring improvement in the seven key technical areas.
Reliability ⁃ Customer services improved.
⁃ Good power quality.
⁃ Adequate outage frequency and duration.
Security ⁃ Protection against cyber security attacks.
⁃ Protection against electricity theft.
⁃ Protection against natural faults.
Economics ⁃ Reduced electricity bills.
⁃ There would be an option for consumers to save electricity.
⁃ Reduction in maintenance and operational costs.
Efciency ⁃ Options for energy conservation are available.
⁃ The intensity of system losses will reduce.
Environmental ⁃ Lower emissions due to greater use of renewable sources.
⁃ Not as much dependent on the weather conditions.
Safety ⁃ Protection for the line workers.
⁃ Protection for the public.
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
4
2.1. Electricity production, transmission, and distribution
WAPDA is considered a public utility in Pakistan and was established
through an Act of Parliament (AoP). The major purpose of WAPDA is to
manage the water and power commodities in the country [29]. The
thermal power of GENCO’s is managed by PEPCO [29]. The adminis-
trative control of WAPDA is managed by the Federal Government of
Pakistan and it is termed as an independent and legislative body. Pres-
ently WAPDA consists of four wings named power, water, nance, and
administrative wing [30]. The functions of these wings are as follows;
1. The responsibility of the power wing is to manage the power gen-
eration of hydel, its operations, maintenance, and management
activities.
2. The responsibility of the water wing is to manage the water re-
sources, it’s planning, scheming, drainage, and irrigation. The large
projects of water at the provincial level are also handled by the water
wing of WAPDA.
3. The responsibility of the nance wing is to manage all the budgetary,
revenues, capital, accounting, and nancial (A&F) matters. The
funding of large water projects is also handled by the nance wing of
WAPDA.
4. The responsibility of the administrative wing is to manage the ser-
vices of the employees, implementation of safety procedures at the
workplace, and formulation of power planning and policies for
Pakistan.
WAPDA plays an important role in the hydropower and water sec-
tors. WAPDA has planned 3 to 12 dams in the next coming years which
not only helps for meeting energy challenges but also deals with the
water shortage in the country [31]. Presently, WAPDA is working on
generating clean energy at an affordable tariff and also for avoiding
ood hazards in the country. The generation capacity of WAPDA hydel
was 8341 MW in 2018-19 [32].
GENCO’s stands for generation companies. There are three main
GENCO’s in Pakistan as listed below [32];
1. Southern Power Generation Company Ltd (SPGCL) is commonly
referred to as GENCO I. The installed capacity of GENCO I is 1024
MW and it generated 917.28 GWh during the scal year 2018-19.
2. Central Power Generation Company Ltd (CPGCL) is commonly
referred to as GENCO II. The installed capacity of GENCO II is 2402
MW and it generated 9385 GWh during the scal year 2018-19.
3. Northern Power Generation Company Ltd (NPGCL) is commonly
referred to as GENCO III. The installed capacity of GENCO III is 2211
MW and it generated 2719.39 GWh during the scal year 2018-19.
PAEC is considered a solitary section in the power sector of Pakistan
that is engaged in power generation through nuclear energy [32]. There
are two sites for nuclear power generation in Pakistan, one is termed as
Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) in the Sindh region manages
two power plants, and the other sites termed as Chashma Nuclear Power
Plants (CHASNUPP) in the Punjab region manages ve power plant
[33]. The gross power capacity of these two power generation sites is
1467 MW that supplied 9136 MWh units to the grid stations in the
country [33].
The responsibility of PPIB is to encourage the private sector in-
vestments in hydro, coal, solar, wind, and other energy sectors of
Fig. 3. Research framework for smart grid implementation in Pakistan’s electric network as per NIST smart grid interoperability (protocols and standards,
release 4.0).
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
5
Pakistan [34]. PPIB is considered a leading company at national and
international levels in terms of attracting private investments in the
energy sector of Pakistan. PPIB has successfully deployed 40 IPP’s in the
country of capacity 17.550 GW with total investments of 20 billion
dollars [35]. The target of PPIB for 2022 is to add 16.600 GW of capacity
in the energy sector of Pakistan. Out of which, nine projects of IPP’s have
been commissioned in the last three years of capacity 8.500 GW.
Additionally, PPIB is also working on a large transmission line in
Pakistan which comes under operation by the end of 2021 [36]. The
function of power transmission and power distribution is shown in
Table 4 [37,38].
2.2. Power shortage in distribution sector of Pakistan
The energy demand in the country is growing day by day and has
increased 28% in the last four years which is further forecasted to rise by
85% in 2025 [39,40]. Presently, the power distribution companies face
an acute electricity shortage of 9.27427 GW. The power supply is
15.76973 GW whereas the demand is 25.044 GW. The energy shortage
in each distribution company is shown in Fig. 4 [41].
3. Issues and challenges for smart grid implementation in
Pakistan
The net income of the power sector of Pakistan is encountering a
huge shortfall, the main reason of which seems to be the non-technical
losses (NTL’s). Human manipulations that are mainly external to the
system have only added to these losses over the past twenty years [42].
NTL’s have not only become the major challenge for developing
countries but some developed countries are also experiencing a signi-
cant revenue loss as a result of NTL’s [43]. As per the report of the
NEPRA (2016), line losses and power theft has coasted Pakistan over
120 billion over the last ve years (2010–2015) [44]. Estimating the
effect of non-technical losses on the system is extremely difcult. Since
these losses are mostly caused by human manipulation, making it nearly
impossible to fully eliminate them. The impact of these losses on the
power grid can be reduced by proper planning, careful preparation, and
effective coordination [45]. NTL’s are typically encountered at the
power distribution end where the voltages are not very high. The
following are some of the underlying causes of NTLs:
•Power theft
Power theft may be in the self-line connection or illegal connection,
is among one of the many factors contributing to Pakistan’s massive
demand-supply gap [46]. Based on a study published in 2015 by the
CPPA of Pakistan, power theft or line losses resulted in the loss of 12
billion units [46]. Without the assistance of internal workers, these illicit
connections are unlikely to occur. To prevent it from causing more
damage, immediate measures must be taken. Power theft can be reduced
by introducing Demand Side Management (DSM) software. Further-
more, real-time pricing, proper management of load, and E-billing will
also be benecial in addressing this serious problem [47–49].
•Energy meter’s illegal tampering
Electricity theft through the tampering of an electric meter or
modication has been a major problem in Pakistan for years. It has also
been a signicant source of revenue losses for the power sector and is a
major contributor to NTLs. Old induction meters are easy to be tampered
with so there was a need to introduce electronic meters with anti-tamper
features [50]. In an attempt to overcome this issue, smart metering is
being adopted in various commercial areas of Pakistan but there is still a
long way to go as electricity thieves have various ways to tamper with
the meter. A huge amount of investment, as well as appropriate and
suitable measures, are needed to substitute these old traditional meters
with high quality smart meters [51].
Table 3
Organizational functions of Pakistan’s energy sector.
Organization Function
Pakistan Council for Renewable
Energy Technologies (PCRET)
Alternative Energy Development
Board (AEDB)
National Energy Efciency and
Conservation Authority (NEECA)
Renewable energy potential, Energy
efciency and research & development
Ministry of Water and Power
Ministry of Science and Technology
Policy formulation and implementation
Ministry of Planning and Development
Reforms
Coordination on policy formulation,
legislation and regulation
Ministry of Energy (petroleum and
power division)
Development of natural resources and
minerals
Ministry of Climate Change Looks after the matters related to GHG
emissions
GENCOs (generation companies)
TRANSCOs (transmission
companies)
DISCOs (distribution companies)
Water and Power Development
Authority (WAPDA)
Pakistan Electric Power Company
(PEPCO)
Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission
(PAEC)
Electricity production, transmission, and
distribution
Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority
(PNRA)
Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority
(OGRA)
National Electric Power Regulatory
Authority (NEPRA)
Regulation
Pakistan State Oil (PSO)
Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL)
Oil and Gas Development Company
Limited (OGDCL)
Oil and Gas production and distribution
Central Power Purchasing Agency
(CPPA)
Undertake functions of wholesale power
market operator at high voltages
Private Power and Infrastructure
Board (PPIB)
To attract investment in the thermal and
hydro projects
Table 4
Function of power transmission and distribution.
Grid
Station
Quantity Function
Power
Transmission
500 KV 16 500 KV Grid Stations are installed near
the public and private power stations
and are responsible for stepping up the
power from 11 KV to 500 KV and then
delivered power to the power
distribution sector through large
transmission lines.
220 KV 45 220 KV Grid Stations are installed near
the public and private power stations
and are responsible for stepping up the
power from 11 KV to 220 KV and then
delivered power to the power
distribution sector through large
transmission lines.
Power
Distribution
132 KV 828 132 KV Grid Stations are installed in the
power distribution sector and are
responsible for stepping down the
power from 500 KV/220 KV to 132 KV.
66 KV 82 66 KV Grid Stations are installed in the
power distribution sector and are
responsible for stepping down the
power from 220 KV/132 KV to 66 KV.
33 KV 40 33 KV Grid Stations are installed in the
power distribution sector and are
responsible for stepping down the
power from 132 KV/66 KV to 33 KV.
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
6
•Equipment failure problems
Equipment failures and errors are also one of the causes of NTLs.
Error in the readings of the equipment and miscalculation occurs when
they are not maintained from time to time [52]. The occurrence of such
errors is frequent on the transmission as well as distribution side. It is
important to maintain old monitoring as well as controlling equipment
to prevent NTL’s caused by equipment failure [53].
•Political manipulation
Political inuence and manipulation play a signicant role in the
present situation, which the power sector of Pakistan is going through.
IPPs as well as rental power plants can provide power and electricity, but
a high tariff has made it impossible to afford [54]. It is difcult to avoid
government intervention due to corruption and high commission
involvement. To alleviate the energy crisis, no attempts or investments
are being made in green energy supplies to nd other sources of inex-
pensive electricity [55].
•Surveillance and rebellions hazard
For several years, Pakistan has been at war against terrorism. This
war against terrorism and bombing has severely harmed the country’s
economy [56]. This entire situation deterred rms from coming to invest
here. As a result of which unemployment and insecurity increased,
forcing technicians, engineers, and qualied employees to seek a job in
other countries [57].
•Manual inspection and
In Pakistan, incorrect or inaccurate energy consumption readings are
obtained through manual inspection of the meters and it has been
practiced for years [58]. Staff and meter owners have a common
interest, get embroiled, and accept bribes. Temptations provided by
meter owners are a signicant obstacle in eliminating this issue. It is also
one of the leading causes of NTLs in Pakistan [58].
•No billing recoveries
Electricity consumers are not paying the bills and made delays in
payment. This problem is very difcult to resolve but proper rules and
regulations must be made to retrieve the non-paid bills, a system with
proper planning as well as management is needed [59].
Technical Losses (TLs) can be categorized under the domain of
technical challenges. These losses arise during the electricity trans-
mission and are termed internal system losses. The major cause of these
internal system losses is the power dissipation in the transmission lines,
malfunctioning of power transformers, measuring devices breakdown,
and failure of equipment present on the system [60]. To manage the TLs,
the power distributor must have complete awareness regarding the load
and dissipation of power [61]. The TLs which are mostly confronted in
Pakistan are mentioned below;
•Challenges for automatic monitoring
Priority should be given to end-users for consistent and good quality
power transmission. To do this, the Automatic Power Transmission
System (APTS) is required for the control and effective monitoring
aiding all sorts of smart technologies [62]. To achieve the task of reli-
ability and efcacy, the Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), Supervisory
Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), and Phasor Measurement Units
(PMUs) worked on a state estimator technique that gathered the data
and provides reliable information of current angles and voltage through
synchronized phasor [63]. The automatic monitoring and controlled
transmission is not a cost-effective system, it will require a huge sum of
investments. Conversely, the unstable economic condition is the biggest
dilemma of the country due to which a substantial amount of effort and
Fig. 4. Power shortage in power distribution sector of Pakistan.
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
7
time is needed to cope with the challenge of monitoring and controlled
transmission system [64].
•Challenges for data transmission
The key tool for the consistent and efcient operation of the power
network is the robust network system of data broadcasting or trans-
mission. However, the sensors are the main source of collecting the data
even located at the farthest point [65]. Even though after many decades,
the fundamental concept of the power system has been the same rather
the only change that has been seen is the frequent usage of switching
devices and the induction of microprocessors-based equipment’s due to
the expansion of power networks [66]. Contrary to this, a fast and
prompt response has been mandatory in case of any fault at the shortest
possible time to maintain the ow of operation of a power system. With
the help of the Global Positioning System (GPS) the exact instance of the
signal can be traced and faults can be detected by the fault recorders and
smart devices. As an outcome, the data which is processed from RTUs
will efciently handle in the main control center. Moreover, using the
SCADA system will upgrade the efciency and reliability of the power
network in the country [67].
•Challenges for intelligent electronic devices
Due to a lack of knowledge about modern technology and advanced
devices, Pakistan is facing a downfall. The modern world is using smart
technology like High Voltage DC (HVDC), smart sensing instruments,
advanced measuring devices, and Flexible AC Transmission System
(FACTS) [68]. While in Pakistan, the controlling methods are outdated.
The main reason behind the shortfall is untrained staff, lack of facilities,
and inadequate resources. Furthermore, insufcient investment in the
power sector is also a hurdle in the evolution and has reduced the reli-
ability of the system. For the deployment of Smart Grid, modern devices
are required like Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) and advance
power electronics devices to detect the fault accurately and make the
system efcient and more reliable [69].
•Challenges for power system reliability
The economic growth of Pakistan has been plunged dramatically.
Prior to the economy, the investment in the power sector is also reduced.
Consequently, the disturbance and disruption have greatly affected the
power system reliability. However, the country is facing a serious risk of
energy crisis and somehow unable to meet the energy requirements for
two decades. Due to the dependent on imported energy resources [70].
The main reasons for the degradation of power system reliability are as
follows [70];
a) Low budget.
b) Imprecise fault detection devices.
c) Increasing demands with low productivity.
•Challenges for communication
Smart Communication network is very important for the deployment
of Smart Grid. Due to a lot of hurdles in the development of a smart
transmission grid, a bulk amount of investment is needed to make the
communication network smart and efcient. The main issues are needed
to be resolved like handling of data, speed of the system, smart and
reliable architecture, controlling of the network, and security from un-
authorized access [71]. Smart networks like IEEE 802.11 based wireless
LAN, IEEE 802.15 based ZigBee, IEEE 802.16 based WiMAX, DASH 7,
Power Line Communication (PLC), and 3G/4G GSM are required for the
reliable and uninterruptible power transmission in smart transmission
grid [72].
•Challenges for fault tracing and clearing
In Pakistan, outdated controlling methods are equipped in the sys-
tem. Detection of faults over a far range is a difcult task and takes a lot
of time and money. The use of modern technology is required to make
the current system efcient. Smart sensors, fuzzy logic, advanced fault
detecting devices are highly recommended which minimize the fault
tracing errors, save time and provide efcient monitoring and control
over the system [73]. By the implementation of the Internet of Things
(IoT) in the grid, the efciency of the system will be increased. In case of
any mishap, the system will alert the control center and protect the
power transmission lines and the other devices connected within the
grid. The proper use of these technologies would play a vital role in the
enhancement of the present system in Pakistan and to make the current
power network into a smart grid [74].
•Challenges for consumer support
The worst part of the current system in Pakistan is the lack of
customer trust. High rates and poor quality disappoint the customer.
Electronic billing is a solution to take consumers into condence, as
there is less possibility of fraud or any mistake in the e-billing system. In
addition, there is a need for a proactive and prompt responsive helpline
to communicate well with customers and should be available at all times
to help users and solve their problems. This will also make it easier to
detect and eliminate the faults [75].
•Challenges for existing power network
The existing power system of Pakistan is not easy to handle because
of the old-fashioned technologies, untrained workers, and unprofes-
sional attitudes. As a result, the Transmission and Distribution (T&D)
losses have increased. Introducing vocational training would lead to
reduce the T&D losses and encourage the workers to make proper use of
modern technology [75].
•Challenges for atmosphere
The emission like carbon dioxide (CO
2
) is very harmful for the
environment. According to the International Resource Group (IRG) in
Pakistan, the hydrocarbon fuel-based power generation plant and the
manufacturing rms are the main sources of natural contamination
[76]. The existing strategies in Pakistan for power generation are using
the non-renewable source of energy which is the greatest source of CO
2
.
Through environmentally friendly power generation, for example, wind
power, solar power, hydrogen energy, geothermal energy, and so forth
the CO
2
outows could be limited [77]. So, to tackle all these atmo-
spheric challenges, appropriate arrangements are necessary to ensure
that customer service is maintained when any fault occurred. Arrange-
ments are required to limit the CO
2
in the country and to make the
existing power sector reliable and efcient [78].
3.1. Solutions offered by smart grid technology
Smart grid is not a process that could be applied easily. It is ought to
be enforced step by step. It is one of the extended and diverse processes
due to its requirement of nancial and technological investments. It
requires a proper proposal of a policy by the country which the county
has to propose by considering the existing population and its growth rate
as well as the existing electric network infrastructure [79]. It will like-
wise help up the nancial development and limit the continuous energy
losses. Some important features of smart grid technology are presented
below that help us to overcome the major issues and challenges.
•Self-healing and diagnosis
A smart grid can diagnose the problem in the electric network
automatically, quickly respond to a fault and resolve it in a very minute
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Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
8
time. The smart grid utilizes smart sensing technologies to facilitate the
online monitoring of transformers, circuit breakers, power transmission
lines, and relays. The smart grid is responsible for managing the smart
operation using condition monitoring and control based synchronized
measurements. Power blackouts, sensor failure, arcing, tower leaning,
wind deviation, a sudden increase in demand, conductor temperature,
and humidity are the frequently faced issues but these issues can easily
be overcome by implementing the communication system which is a fast
self-healing system [80].
•Data handling and managing facility
Smart grid is capable of handling and managing the database. The
database saves the data got from the devices situated at far distances.
Data sharing between two grid and power stations are also possible in
the smart grid which increases the system reliability [81].
•Online system monitoring mechanism
Smart grid provides automatic control to manage the electricity ow
in the low and high demand areas, record energy consumption auto-
matically, and reduce consumer bills which ultimately give nancial
benets to the power sector. The online monitoring mechanism is an
effective and efcient process that helps in reducing the need for a
manual control process. Smart grid intelligently manages the balance
between the power supply and demand by utilizing the smart technol-
ogies and also for the betterment of resource improvement, smart grid
comply the interoperable infrastructure which provides the efciency
improvement functionalities for sustainable operation [82].
Another thing, which is needed to be ensured to provide quality
power to every single household, is to reduce transmission and distri-
bution losses. To reduce them we should be well aware of the reasons for
this loss. The two main reasons are theft and a weak grid. To overcome
this loss the main role will be played by the employees in the power
sector. The theft can be controlled by creating awareness in the con-
sumers about the benets. This can be done by using social media
platforms. Another way to control the theft is the implementation of
digital energy meters for the monitoring of power systems within every
bus [83].
•Interoperability and cyber security
Another important feature for the implementation of the smart grid
is that the standards and ability of communication of different software
applications and information technology systems should be checked and
xed by the utilities. Other things that are required for it are cyber se-
curity measures, and highly qualied employees for the monitoring and
controlling of complex network communication and smart grid’s sensor
technologies. The security measures of cyber must be a part of its built-in
design. It must be self-recover as well as highly resistant to attack [84].
•Opportunities for renewable energy integration
The development in power electronics by using insulated gate bi-
polar transistor for the controlling of high power by fast semiconductor
switching leads to the progress of the integration of renewable energy
[85]. There are chances of having harmonics in the power systems. The
grid which has an enormous measure of renewable energy penetration
could improve its strength and dependability with the help of some
exible alternating current transmission system devices such as static
synchronous compensator, static series synchronous compensator, and
unied power ow controller. So, the harmonics occurring in the power
circuits will be mitigated by the help of the lter that is with these
systems [86]. Another thing is the computer controller of real time
which is familiar and well known with the advanced calculation and
could implement the advanced algorithms. This is something that could
act as a great source for the extraction of maximum power energy from
renewable power resources [87]. It will also be a way of improving the
battery life as it will be protecting storage devices from over charging,
along with all this it will help remove uctuations and reduce them in
renewable energy generation [88]. Another way for the reduction of
uctuations in renewable energy generation is by following distributed
renewable generation which can be done by preferring small power
plants in the large geographical area instead of one single large power
plant packing around one area [89]. The reason behind this is that
simple natural phenomena like clouding could affect around
three-fourth of the output of solar photovoltaic cells within less than 15
min [90].
•Role of government and nancial organizations
The support of the government is important for the growth of
advanced technology such as Information, communication, and control
technology throughout the country. Another key for the development of
technology is union, Union within the country as well as a union among
different countries. The industries, utilities and government of a country
need to function as an association to accomplish technological devel-
opment for the application of smart grid. The countries could work
together by a bilateral agreement to make the development worldwide
and make the current innovation and advanced technologies to be
accessible to all [70].
The quality of power to all households is something to be ensured by
developed countries. But it is something that cannot be accomplished
without large investments for which the country should acquire the help
of world association such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), World
Bank (WB), United State Agency for International Development
(USAID), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and China
Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) so that the smart grid could be
implemented [70].
3.2. Smart technologies in Pakistan for smart grid implementation
Basically, three types of technologies are available in Pakistan for the
integration of smart grid infrastructure.
a) Wireless Communication Technologies (WCT)
b) Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
c) Energy Storage Technologies (EST)
•Wireless communication technologies (WCT)
Presently, Pakistan’s electric network is overloaded and over aged
but the growth of WCT is much higher as compared with the other un-
derdeveloped and developing countries around the globe. In the old
power system, there is no effective communication is present for the
fault diagnosis and monitoring. Such circumstance further complicates
the situation in an emergency and takes more time to detect and resolve
a single fault [75]. Normally, the old power system is running on the
wired system, which is responsible for managing the operation of its grid
and has no concern with the other grids in the surrounding region [91].
The wired system is not efcient and effective whereas the wireless
system is rapid, robust, and cost effective [92]. The recent developments
in wireless technologies are as follows;
a) ZigBee (IEEE 802.15) is famous for the wireless sensor networks
(WSN) applications and can be connected to relays, switches, and
circuit breakers to control the power ow with the grid station as this
technology is cost effective and consumes very little power [89].
b) WiMax (IEEE 802.16) is commercially available at a wider level in
Pakistan in the shape of 4G technology. WiMax technology is
generally recommended for the communication among the power
generating station, distributed generating station, and grid stations
because of high data rates to support the long-distance
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
9
communication as shown in Fig. 5. This technology can support
network surveillance, emergency communication, and smart meter-
ing [93].
c) WiFi (IEEE 802.11, Wireless LAN) is suitable for power distribution
monitoring, security, and also for automation purposes. This tech-
nology is helpful for the intra grid communication purpose whereas
the WiMax is helpful for inter grid communication [49]. Fig. 6 shows
the operation of intra and inter grid communication.
d 3G Cellular or Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) is a
fully groomed technology and has more than 100 million users in the
country. This technology is used in every part of the country. This
cellular technology helps to use the existing infrastructure for the
applications of the smart grid. Supervisory control and acquisition
(SCADA) can be integrated into the cellular network by using the
coded division multiple access (CDMA) for power systems [94]. Fiber
over wireless is also a suitable option for Pakistan because of its fast
and reliable operation and can be utilized for communication be-
tween grids for a swift response.
•Information and communication technologies (ICT)
ICT infrastructure is developed for cyber security and it supports the
SCADA framework [95]. Normally, SCADA system comprises the
following key components;
a) Human Machine Interface (HMI).
b) SCADA Master Server.
c) Programmable Logic Controller (Remote units).
d) Intelligent Electronic Devices.
e) Communication Network (Provide the communications among
different networks).
The SCADA system is decentralized and has the following important
features;
a) Can take the load from interested grid stations and decides the en-
ergy ow conguration.
b) Ability to reduce the load of loaded feeders and sifted to the desired
consumers directly.
c) Ability to detect the fault and restore the services automatically.
•Energy storage technologies (EST)
Recently, developed nations have established many EST’s for the
sustainable operation of the power system. EST has high efciency of
energy storage and possesses a greater life cycle. EST plays a crucial role
in handling and delivering the output power of distributed generation
plants based on renewable and non-renewable resources [96]. The
developed EST’s are given below [96];
a) Electromagnetic storages (Superconducting Magnetic Energy
Storage).
b) Electromechanical storages (Pumped Hydro, ywheels, and Com-
pressed Air Energy Storage).
c) Electrochemical storages (Lead-acid, Zinc Bromine, Sodium–Sulfur,
Vanadium Redox, Nickel–Cadmium, Li-ion batteries).
d) Electrostatic storages (Ultra-capacitors).
3.3. Energy resources in Pakistan for smart grid implementation
Due to the geographical location (latitudes 24◦and 36◦north and
longitudes 61◦and 76◦east), Pakistan is blessed with a number of
renewable and non-renewable resources includes biomass, coal, wind,
natural gas, solar, oil, hydro, and geothermal [26,30]. The location and
potential of renewable and non-renewable resources are listed below;
1. Biomass is normally obtained from the major four sources includes,
including forest, animal, solid waste, and agricultural. Biomass is
available in every region of Pakistan. The daily production of crop
residue is around 225,000 tons, solid waste around 50,000 tons, and
the production of animal manure is around 1,000,000 tons. The
estimated capacity of power production from biomass sources is
around 20 GW per year.
2. The total capacity of coal in Pakistan is around 185 billion tons and is
considered the cheapest source of electricity in Pakistan. The major
coal eld lies in the province of Sindh with a capacity of 175 billion
tons. If Pakistan’s coal resource exploit properly for power genera-
tion, then it is easily concluded that 100 GW of power could be
generated annually.
3. The technical potential of wind energy is higher in the southern part
of Balochistan and Sindh province covers an area of around 1000 km
of coastline [24]. The speed of wind is noticed around 7 m per second
whereas the estimated capacity of power production from wind
source is around 122 GW per year.
Fig. 5. WiMax technology for the inter grid communication.
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
10
4. Pakistan is the 29th country in the world which has 19 trillion cubic
feet of natural gas reserved as of 2017. The annual production of
natural gas is around 1,454,978.00 million cubic feet and its reserves
lie in the three provinces of Pakistan includes Balochistan, Sindh, and
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
5. Pakistan is also blessed with solar resource. The sunshine starts
increasing from January till September. In October there is a little
rise and then a drop in the sunshine till December. The annual
average sunshine of the country is around 8 h per day whereas the
solar irradiation is around 7 KWh/m
2
/day. The estimated capacity of
power production from solar sources is around 100 GW per year.
6. Pakistan is considered at the 52nd number in terms of oil reserves
around 353,500,000 barrels as of 2016. Pakistan consumes oil
around 556,000 barrels per day and it also imports oil from Iran,
Iraq, and Saudi Arabia of around 135,201 barrels per day. The major
reserves of oil in Pakistan are located in the province of Balochistan
and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
7. Hydropower is mostly used in Pakistan as compared with other
renewable sources. Mostly hydro potential lies in Azad Jammu and
Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, and the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
As per the estimations of WAPDA, Pakistan could generate 60 GW of
power annually from hydropower.
8. Geothermal mud volcanoes and hot springs are lie in Hunza and
Gilgit region along the seismic belt of Pakistan. The estimated power
potential from a geothermal source is around 100 GW.
Despite such huge availability of domestic energy resources still
Pakistan imports fossil assets for power generation. Only some percent
of coal and natural gas are exploited for domestic use and also for power
generation. In continuation to it, only 7 GW of hydropower potential is
harnessed out of 60 GW whereas the other energy sources are untapped
and unexploited.
Fossil fuels (Natural Gas, Coal and Oil) are considered as the con-
ventional energy sources and are very useful for the improvement of
country’s economy. Alongside these fossil fuels creates some negative
impacts on the environment. Due to negative impacts on the environ-
ment developed countries turn their thinking from the use of fossil fuels
towards the renewable energy sources. Number of problems like envi-
ronmental, social and economic can be resolved by exploring the
renewable energy sources as such these sources are environment-
friendly, having zero or minor emission of poisonous gasses like SO₂,
CO, and CO₂. In near future renewable sources are going to be the most
crucial and important source for power generation because each and
every country produces sustainable energy by using these sources again
and again throughout the year. The most favorable renewable source is
wind due to its positive social impacts, lower water requirement and
very low greenhouse gas emissions followed by solar, geothermal and
hydropower. Global warming effect should be minimized by exploring
the potential of renewable sources for power generation as these sources
are considered as clean, green and sustainable sources. Community
development, better environmental health, social bonds creation, con-
sumer choice, local employment, income development, job creation, job
opportunities, lower demographic impacts, and improvement in life
standard can be acquired by utilizing renewable energy sources. Besides
this some disadvantages of renewable sources are also existing like
output variations due to seasonal change in solar, hydro and wind
electric power plants, hence special design consideration are required
and is possible through the deployment of computer-based technologies
(hardware and software).
4. Implementation of smart grid in Pakistan as per NIST smart
grid interoperability (protocols and standards, release 4.0)
Initially, a postmortem review of Pakistan’s power sector was
Fig. 6. Intra and inter grid communication.
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
11
performed for nding the power demand of the power distribution
sector. The key issues and challenges are identied for the deployment
of smart grid in Pakistan’s electric network and suggested possible ap-
proaches in this regard. Discusses the availability of smart technologies
such as WCT, ICT, and EST that can integrate the smart grid infra-
structure for sustainable operation and evaluated the energy resources
in terms of availability. It is found that renewable sources and smart
technologies are the best possible solution and are also supportive at
grid stations. In order to meet present energy demand and future energy
challenges, a public utility can integrate or disintegrate the energy
sources through smart technologies according to the per unit price and
weather conditions. In this regard, a smart grid model is proposed as per
smart grid interoperability (protocols and standards, release 4.0) in
Pakistan’s electric network as depicts in Fig. 7. The proposed smart grid
model is helpful for the Government of Pakistan in making policies
related to the sustainable environment and low-cost energy solutions.
Fig. 8 presents the synopsis of proposed smart grid model. Synopsis of
smart grid model shows two ways of communication through the WCT,
ICT, and EST technologies and it further helps in connecting the on-site
and off-site power sector organizations for efcient energy management
in Pakistan. The detailed description of smart grid model and its synopsis
is given in Table 5 which depicts the present power sector infrastructure
of Pakistan with a proposed solution. The authors proposed solutions by
keeping in view the current economic and energy situation. An efcient
and integrated energy management system can be achieved through our
suggested synopsis and smart grid model.
Furthermore, the SWOT and STEEPLE analysis test was conducted on
the proposed smart grid model for identifying important measures and
actions that can be suggested for the roadmap.
•SWOT analysis for the proposed smart grid model
Large industries and academic institutions adopted SWOT analysis
practice for achieving goals through strategic planning [97]. SWOT
stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threads. In this
study, strengths and weaknesses are identied for smart grid deploy-
ment. Moreover, opportunities are explored for future investments along
with the probable threats of delay in achieving the target. Table 6 shows
the outcomes of SWOT analysis for the proposed smart grid model.
•STEEPLE analysis for the proposed smart grid model
STEEPLE analysis is considered as a research tool for the analysis of
macro-economic and environmental factors [98]. STEEPLE stands for
Fig. 7. Proposed model for the smart grid operation as per NIST smart grid interoperability (protocols and standards, release 4.0) for Pakistan’s electric network.
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
12
Social, Technical, Environmental, Economic, Political, Legal, and
Ethical. STEEPLE analysis is applied on the designed smart grid model
for the identication of the social, technical, environmental, economic,
political, legal, and ethical factors that have a negative or positive effect
on the successful implementation and adoption of a smart grid model for
Pakistan’s electric network. Table 7 shows the outcomes of STEEPLE
analysis for the proposed smart grid model.
Commitments of higher management related to the integration of
energy efciency are implemented through continuous training of
technical staff members, which comes under the social factor of
STEEPLE framework. Technological factor of STEEPLE framework
identies the energy efciency measures for the efcient monitoring of
the system performance and periodical management review. Econom-
ical factor helps to gather additional funds, it reduces cost of energy
and enhances the protability for the sustainable development in the
country. Environmental factor of STEEPLE framework established en-
ergy baseline, it also helps to reduce the energy consumption pattern
and carbon emissions which ultimately reduces the negative conse-
quences of air pollution on climate change and human health. Political
factor of the STEEPLE framework is responsible for creating nancial
opportunities and managing stakeholder inuences. Legal factor of
STEEPLE framework manages regulations and standards, compliance
with existing energy policies and recommend the future energy related
regulations and nally, the ethical factor of STEEPLE framework
facilitate the effective inter-organizational and intra-organizational
communications.
5. Limitations
The limitations are described below;
1. The inefcient utilization of energy is normally done by industrial
and commercial consumers can also be monitored and controlled by
smart grid technology.
2. Smart grid communicates with the smart houses, notices the energy
consumption, and manages the load requirements concerning the
variable tariff.
6. Conclusion
This research discusses the inefciencies of the electric network in
Pakistan. The concept of an integrated energy management system using
a smart grid is reviewed with possible applications in Pakistan. In the
deployment of the smart grid as per smart grid interoperability (pro-
tocols and standards, release 4.0), several issues and challenges are
faced along with it presented several possible approaches to overcome
the problems for sustainable energy development. Evaluated the smart
technologies such as wireless communication, information, and energy
storage technologies for the availability in Pakistan. Discussed the
power potential of domestic energy resources such as biomass, coal,
wind, natural gas, solar, oil, hydro, and geothermal for the integration in
the smart grid. The smart grid model and its synopsis is implemented in
Pakistan’s electric network as per smart grid interoperability (protocols
and standards, release 4.0). The proposed system has following
signicance:
Fig. 8. Synopsis model of the proposed smart grid as per NIST smart grid interoperability (protocols and standards, release 4.0) for Pakistan’s electric network.
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
13
•Power generation, transmission and distribution system will become
distributed, smart and efcient.
•In the old power system, there was 20.344% transmission and dis-
tribution losses. After implementation of smart grid electricity con-
sumption could be reduced by 1.2%–4.3%. This reduction in energy
production provides a corresponding reduction in T&D losses and
also in all types of emissions
•Smart technologies such as wireless communication and information
technologies are responsible for the intra and inter grid communi-
cation for sustainable power system operation.
•Energy storage devices managed the power supply during peak and
base load demand.
•Energy production units can be monitored and controlled by the
digital energy management system alongside optimal, balanced, and
controlled load shedding schedule is possible if required.
•Almost negligible greenhouse gasses will produce due to the robust
integration of renewable energy resources.
Furthermore, detailed analysis of implemented smart grid model is
performed through SWOT and STEEPLE framework. SWOT framework
shows that digital system will bring security, safety, robustness and
capital in the Pakistan’s power sector alongside some challenges are
high like circular debt, poor nancial condition and risk for cyber and
information security. STEEPLE framework depicts that digital system
will bring prosperity and sustainability in the economy of Pakistan.
This research has set a vision that how to design and implement a
smart grid model for the efcient and intelligent energy management
system for developing and non-developing countries around the
world.
Table 5
The proposed solution for the existing electric network of Pakistan.
Available system Proposed system
The power generation system is centralized. Power generation system becomes distributed.
The power transmission system is manually handled by the NTDC. Power transmission system becomes smart and efcient.
The power distribution system is manually controlled by the power distribution
companies.
Power distribution system becomes smart and efcient.
T&D losses are around 20.344% in net power generated in the year 2021 [61] Electricity consumption could be reduced by 1.2–4.3%. This reduction in energy
production provides a corresponding reduction in T&D losses and also in all types of
emissions [61].
Radial and localized network topology. Closed and interconnected network topology along with reactive and active power
ow control.
The human based operation, maintenance, and monitoring on site. Automatic remote maintenance and monitoring.
Electromechanical metering infrastructure. Digital and smart metering infrastructure.
Perform manual load shading. Perform software based load shading.
No addition of distributed generation plants or units based on renewable sources. Addition of distributed generation plants or units based on renewable sources.
Unable to predict the weather conditions and shut down operations manually in bad
weather.
Ability to predict the weather and add or remove renewable sources as per
requirement.
Manual fault detection and manual fault recovery. Automatic fault detection and self healing fault recovery.
Manual intra and inter grid communication. Digital Intra and inter grid communication with the latest technologies such as WiFi,
PMU, automatic switches, and re-closers, 3G cellular, WiMax, and Geographic
Information System (GIS) and distributed generation control and storage from far
distance.
Limited consumer interactions Exclusive consumer interactions
The price of electricity is adjusted by the CPPA and NEPRA and is distributed manually
to power distribution sectors.
The price of electricity is adjusted by the CPPA and NEPRA and updated in the EMS of
the power distribution sector.
No schedule planning of power generation and no communication between the power
generating sectors.
Shared communication and schedule planning of power generation between the
power generating sectors.
Power generation and power distribution sectors are managing their operations
separately.
Centralized with data acquisition feature make the system reliable and chooses best
option for country.
Unbalanced load shedding schedule. Optimal, balanced, and controlled load shedding schedule.
Hand written daily report of grid station and hand written monthly/annual report of
energy consumption.
SCADA, GIS, and Energy Management System (EMS).
Greater greenhouse gasses due to huge dependence on imported fossil fuels such as
natural gas, oil, and coal.
Lower greenhouse gasses due to robust integration of renewable energy resources
Table 6
SWOT framework for the proposed smart grid model.
Strengths Weaknesses
⁃ The huge potential of renewable and
non-renewable energy resources is
available for the smart grid.
⁃ Deployment of renewable technology
for power generation.
⁃ Energy security is improved.
⁃ Robustness in the power supply system.
⁃ Huge safety of the system.
⁃ Integrated approach for the energy
management system.
⁃ Incorporating distributed generation
plant for peak demand.
⁃ Acceptance of digital technology.
⁃ Inefcient utilization of domestic
resources.
⁃ Poor performance of state-owned
institutions.
⁃ Huge transmission and distribution
losses.
⁃ High circular debt.
⁃ Lack of experienced person.
⁃ Poor nancial condition.
⁃ Marketing problems.
⁃ Not organized energy vision model.
⁃ Lack of research and development.
Opportunities Threads
⁃ Increasing consumer users.
⁃ Integration of renewable resources.
⁃ Lower environmental impacts.
⁃ Require large investments.
⁃ Energy storage facility.
⁃ Sustainable electricity supply.
⁃ Economic advantage.
⁃ Long term contracts to electricity sell to
large industrial consumers.
⁃ Provincial conicts on smart grid.
⁃ Security challenges in the smart grid.
⁃ Cost of electricity production.
⁃ Information security risk.
⁃ Challenges for cyber security.
⁃ Lack of regional corporation and
communication barriers.
⁃ Lack of international contracts on the
deployment of smart grid in Pakistan.
Table 7
STEEPLE framework for the proposed smart grid model.
Social Huge benets for the rapid urbanization and population explosion.
Technical Conventional electrical power system becomes digital.
Environment Less environmental impacts due to greater use of renewable sources.
Economic Alleviation of circular debt and economic growth rate will increase.
Political The geopolitical situation becomes stable.
Legal Implementation of energy and environmental laws for sustainable
development.
Ethical Due to the implementation of digital technology, the chances of
electricity theft and corruption will reduce.
M.A. Raza et al.
Energy Strategy Reviews 43 (2022) 100941
14
Details of funding agencies
This research did not receive any specic grant from funding
agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-prot sectors.
Declaration of competing interest
The authors declare that they have no known competing nancial
interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to inuence
the work reported in this paper.
Acknowledgments
The authors are highly thankful to the Center for Advanced Studies in
Renewable Energy (ASURE), NED University of Engineering and Tech-
nology Karachi, Pakistan for providing a research platform.
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