Closing the gap in understanding between stakeholders and electrical energy specialists

Introduction

Large scale renewable projects are dramatically changing the nature of interactions between power stations. While there is usually strong support for these renewable projects, this is less so when it comes to the need for new transmission or distribution infrastructure. The level of understanding of the mismatch between generated energy and the diverse load profiles and the consequent need for storage or other generation support, sometimes from remote sources, is limited. In addition, the new power system dynamic is creating operational challenges. Where these operational events lead to significant and sustained loss of supply, there is a tendency for some stakeholders to jump to conclusions as to whether the problem is caused by the introduction of renewables, an unforeseen contingency or a more traditional severe weather event.

The number of customer-side technologies is increasing at a rapid rate, and so too are the customer’s opportunities to engage with their energy usage in very different ways. As a result, customers and stakeholders have shown both a growing awareness of, and concern for, the types of decisions being made regarding energy supply and delivery. Many more stakeholders are discussing energy issues and accessing a plethora of information sources. Through technology, they can communicate with other stakeholders and customers to further their learning. Yet in many cases the level of detailed understanding, by stakeholders, of the technical challenges facing the power system is limited.

Issues may often be clouded by competing ideologies as well as political or technology vendor business drivers and preferences. Any or all of these may make it more difficult for the ‘layperson’ or non-technical person (both at the consumer and business level) to fully understand the range of stakeholder implications for the perspectives being proposed. It has also become clear that the range of new entrants in the market often bring perspectives and motivations that are new or different to what utility professionals have experienced in the past.

It is in this context that Working Group (WG) C1.41 was tasked with identifying means to bridge the gap in mutual understanding amongst the technical specialists and the various stakeholders that have a vested interest in the electricity product. This is particularly important where the evolution of the power system is leading to changes in costs and potentially significant changes in jurisdictional policy and energy strategy, which impact not only the customers but also the broader industry environment and economy. 

Aspects covered in the Technical Brochure

The WG has produced Technical Brochure (TB) 882 to support energy industry personnel in their efforts to close the gaps in understanding and communicate effectively with stakeholders. The WG recognised that readers of the TB may come from diverse backgrounds with varying levels of technical expertise and experience with stakeholder engagement. The...