Electric Power Grid Reliability in a New Era of Energy Development and an Introduction to the Pitt Energy Grid Institute

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Energy resources and the supply of electric power are significant defining global issues of the 21st century, and play a critical role in our society on many levels. The impact from a new era of energy resource development and the rapidly evolving mix of diverse energy resource portfolios in the 21^st century are creating new challenges, and opportunities, for electric power grid infrastructure. Over the past quarter of the 20^th century, our nation had under‐invested in technology, infrastructure, research and development, and education in this important area. The impact of these trends today has resulted in a tremendous need not only for technology and infrastructure advancement, but also in the area of workforce development. This seminar will provide an overview of the electric power and energy sector, along with recommendations on solutions to power grid reliability concerns, including the role of advanced power electronics control technologies and the emergence of Direct Current (DC) solutions at all levels of the grid, as well as microgrids and other rapidly evolving development. The discussion will also highlight opportunities for research and development needs, education and training, and future employment in these exciting and dynamic fields, including the leadership role of the Pittsburgh region. The discussion will also provide an introduction to the recently established Energy GRID Institute at the University of Pittsburgh.

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