Grid Modernization Means Real-Time Awareness

The constant buzz words of "resiliency, reliability, & grid modernization," are thrown around today like new car commercials. What do those words really mean and how is it that every technology marketed today somehow ties into those efforts? It truly comes down to everyone's interpretation of the words. It is obvious that today's grid needs to become more proactive, rather than reactive, but how are utility professionals supposed to accomplish this with a lack of situational awareness in the grid? Utilities that get by with CT & VT measurements along with PQ meters could be doing better & personally, there needs to be a desire for more rea-time, granular data, in more locations, to provide grid operators the situational awareness to make the right decision at a moment's notice. This allows the concept of the "grid edge" to discussed with everything connected to create a fully autonomous grid. Schemes like FLISR can then translate into "Predictive LISER," reduce outage time & equipment failure. Sensors that are optical provide utilities the ability to truly monitor real-time events, track, and formulate plans to address the common issues we see in the grid today, while also being immune to events that destroy traditional sensing technologies, full of chips and electrical component. Without sensors that are accurate in the grid & pulling more than just current & voltage back into SCADA, how can grid operators have 100% confidence that they're making the right choices in the control room?