Environmental assessment of smart energy management systems at distribution level — A review

The global transition from traditional electrical grids to smart grids is well underway: the primary objective of smart grids is to optimize energy flows, achieving improved energy efficiency through better integration of renewable sources, reduced reliance on environmentally harmful production methods, and enhanced utilization of emerging energy technologies. This aims to decrease unnecessary consumption, reducing the difference between the power consumption and the actual user needs. The fundamental and stated goal is to minimize the overall environmental impact of the energy sector. However, these smart systems rely heavily on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), raising concerns about the overall environmental impact. This study seeks therefore to comprehensively review existing literature to assess how environmental considerations are tackled into current research on energy management systems at the distribution grid level, and the extent to which it aligns with actual challenges. Two key findings emerge: first, the current smart grid research tends to focus on cost optimization and not on directly addressing environmental challenges. Secondly, when environmental considerations are addressed, there is no consensus on the positive or negative impact of these systems. Concerns arise regarding potential additional burdens due to impact transfers and rebound effects. In conclusion, the review emphasizes the need for further research and a more thorough incorporation of environmental considerations in future smart grid development. Key recommendations for future development include the urgency to establish standard interdisciplinary methodologies and systematically measure the embodied impact of developed energy management systems to ensure a sustainable and ecologically responsible transition.