Architecture of Electrical-energy Grids, Why and How?

Due to the complexity and large size on the one hand and addition of new equipment and technologies on the other hand, power systems may be subject to uneven or uncoordinated development. That is, development and addition of new technologies are mostly done locally, and then their effect on the whole system is observed in future. Such an approach endangers the long-term integrity and security of the power system. From economical point of view, it can also lead to waste of investment and poor asset management. Grid architecture is a topic that has been of interest in recent years to address these problems. Output of the grid architecture usually includes models and roadmaps that are aligned with the goals and requirements of the power system and coordinate downstream activities with upstream ones in the system. This paper presents the concepts, steps, notes and challenges of the grid architecture. A general view of the topic is presented that could be useful for researchers and those who are involved in the electricity industry.