The Smart Grid with Paul Zawada
Paul Zawada of Syntonis LLC explains the technical and operational challenges of the smart grid, focusing on the transition from centralized generation to distributed renewable sources like rooftop solar. He details how inverter technology, frequency control, and reactive power (VARs) are critical for maintaining grid stability as traditional spinning inertia disappears. The discussion covers the evolution of standards like IEEE 1547, the role of SCADA and state estimators in real-time contingency analysis, and the mechanics of high-voltage transmission and distribution infrastructure.