For the last several years, the reality of aging, overburdened electrical grids has been realized by the world-wide engineering and utility community. Identifying and addressing the issues has been a challenge and the challenge is being met, in part, by the development of the Smart Grid concept. In conjunction with this alternative energy sources are an integral component in the Smart Grid. Their use goes hand-in-hand with significantly reducing the environmental impact of the whole electricity supply system.
Although seldom realized, lightning and surge protection play a critical role in reducing the impact of industrial waste in commercial and industrial operations and this in turn helps reduce any negative impact on the environment. This is accomplished, in part, by decreasing the amount of printed circuit board cards, office machinery, computers, lighting and other equipment that must be discarded due to damage caused by internally or externally generated surges.
The successful implementation of 21st century technology demands attention in the arena of electrical systems and technology, much of which has seen little change since the 1970's. The field of electrical power quality and more specifically lightning and transient surge protection holds the key to obtaining full benefit of the electronic equipment that companies today invest in that are designed to make them more profitable. Yesterday's designs are insufficient to protect today's electronics. A fresh approach that zero's in the true needs of 21st century electronics is what this paper will explore.
The underlying purpose of the presentation is to reinforce the fact that surge protection, the Fourth generation type, is not an option; it is the foundation for all we do in the 21st century. A faulty foundation of antiquated technology will not provide the stability necessary to revolutionize the economies of Africa.
