Smart Grid Research Project

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Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK

£76,500

April 30, 2012

Oct. 31, 2012

We have identified the global power industry as a market for one of our most recently
developed product lines which utilise a technology which is becoming increasingly important
in that industry. As they stand, our products are tailored towards other markets and our initial
research has indicated that we need to adapt the existing products or develop new ones to
cater properly for the target audience. We believe it is essential that we conduct in-depth
research of the electricity generation and supply industry to enable us to develop marketoriented
products and formulate an effective market entry strategy.
Traditionally, power grids have utilised fairly low-level time synchronisation technology as a
means of locating faults and monitoring the frequency of AC power distribution. In recent
years, the concept of the smart grid has developed. This uses proven technologies, to bring
computer-based remote control and automation to power networks, leading to more effective
power distribution, greater control and cost savings which can be passed on to consumers.
The increased efficiency means a much greener performance which is clearly of major benefit
to the environment.
Precision Time Protocol (PTP) is a relatively new technology that plays a vital role in smart
grids as it offers ultra-high accuracy required in the synchronisation of the power networks, at
a comparably low cost. We have been developing products using PTP for the last two years
and realise we can apply our knowledge of the technology to adapt these products to
specifically suit a smart grid application. As this opportunity is still in its infancy, it is
critical for us to get a foothold into this market as quickly as possible, so that we can build a
reputation and penetrate the market ahead of competition.