How can power system planning and operation be more equitable?

1 What is power system equity?

Power system equity is the idea that power systems should be designed and managed in a way that promotes fair and inclusive access, participation, and benefits for all people, especially those who are marginalized, vulnerable, or underrepresented. It also means that power systems should avoid or minimize negative impacts, such as pollution, displacement, or discrimination, on any group or area. Power system equity is related to concepts such as energy justice, energy democracy, and energy sovereignty, which emphasize the ethical and political dimensions of energy systems.

2 Why is power system equity important?

Power system equity is important for several reasons. First, it can improve the quality of life and well-being of people who depend on reliable, affordable, and clean electricity for their basic needs, livelihoods, and aspirations. Second, it can enhance the social acceptance and legitimacy of power system decisions and policies, by ensuring that they reflect the values and interests of diverse stakeholders and communities. Third, it can support the transition to a low-carbon and resilient power system, by fostering innovation, collaboration, and empowerment among different actors and sectors.

3 How can power system planning be more equitable?

Power system planning is the process of determining the optimal configuration and expansion of power system infrastructure and resources, such as generation, transmission, distribution, and storage facilities, over a long-term horizon. To make this process more equitable, it is important to engage with a wide range of stakeholders throughout the planning process. Additionally, multi-criteria analysis should be used to evaluate the performance of different power system options based on multiple criteria, such as technical, economic, environmental, social, and cultural aspects. Spatial analysis should also be conducted to map the spatial distribution and variation of power system resources and demands. Finally, equity indicators should be developed and applied to measure the degree of equity achieved by different power system options.

4 How can power system operation be more equitable?

Power system operation is the process of controlling and coordinating the real-time operation and dispatch of power system resources and facilities, to balance supply and demand, maintain system stability and security, and comply with market and regulatory rules. To make power system operation more equitable, it is important to incorporate demand response, distributed generation, community energy, and inclusive tariffs. Demand response involves enabling customers to adjust their electricity consumption in response to price signals, system conditions, or environmental factors. Distributed generation enables customers to generate their own electricity from renewable or other sources. Community energy allows communities to own, manage, and benefit from local or collective power system resources and facilities. Inclusive tariffs ensure fair and affordable access to electricity for all customers. All of these elements help to reduce peak demand, increase system flexibility, lower electricity bills, increase self-reliance, resilience, and income, as well as increase social cohesion, participation, and empowerment.

5 What are some examples of power system equity initiatives?

Many power system equity initiatives exist around the world, each designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities of its particular context and region. For example, Ethiopia's National Electrification Plan seeks to provide universal access to electricity by 2025, involving local communities, private sector, and development partners in the process. In New Mexico, USA, the Energy Transition Act works towards 100% carbon-free electricity by 2045, with economic and social support for workers and communities affected by coal-fired power plant closures. South Africa's Energy Democracy Initiative promotes a decentralized and participatory power system based on renewable energy and community ownership. Finally, India's Power for All Campaign works to empower rural communities to access and use clean and reliable electricity through local entrepreneurs offering customized and affordable solutions.