Digitalization of power distribution grids is hot, something that Gridspertise is working Qualcomm to provide.
A recently-launched Quantum Edge device from Gridspertise, owned by Enel, is powered by Qualcomm’s Octa-Core ARM 64-bit processor and includes 5G and fiber optic connectivity. The device supports AI inferencing with a built-in AI engine.
“Power distribution grids need to go through a great technological transformation to increase flexibility, grid resilience and quality of service,” said Gridspertise CEO Robert Denda. “The only efficient way to tackle this scenario is to introduce more digitization and make the grids smarter.”
In a blog, he said the QEd box allows for real-time fault detection for utilities to analyze power flow and surges for more efficient energy delivery. With the growing abundance of smart meters at buildings and homes, utilities can use devices like Gridspertise to throttle up power and bring it down again, as needed, all with the benefit of AI helping make decisions.
Enel already manages 1.2 million second substations globally, half of which are remotely controlled, leaving plenty of work to be done. Denda called QEd an “all-in-one” solution for grid modernization.
Gridspertise is launching a collaboration with utilities to test QEd and to develop new applications and functions. At MWC 2022 in Barcelona this week, Qualcomm and Gridspertise said they will further collaborate on the QEd approach, targeting especially U.S. utilities.
Qualcomm made a number of announcements at MWC, including collaborating with Boingo Wireless on its Smart Cities Accelerator Program. Using the Qualcomm IoT Services Suite, Boingo said it plans to unite hardware, software and platforms for IoT projects and connection devices with the Boingo Private Networks solution.
Connected intelligent edge products like QEd are a major area of focus for Qualcomm. Mark Roberts, vice president of product marketing for Qualcomm said at a MWC press briefing on Monday that the company sees a “massive opportunity” in the segment, which it defines as billions of smart devices 100% of the time.
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