Demand-Side Management in Smart Grids Using Power Electronics Technologies: A Review

Abstract

Demand-Side Management (DSM) is a crucial component of modern smart grids, enabling efficient energy utilization, load balancing, and grid stability while reducing operational costs and minimizing environmental impact. With the rapid growth of renewable energy sources (RES), the increasing penetration of electrified transportation, and the shift towards decentralized power generation, DSM strategies have become essential in ensuring a reliable and resilient power grid.

Power electronics technologies play a pivotal role in DSM by facilitating real-time load control, dynamic energy optimization, and seamless integration of distributed energy resources (DERs). This review explores the advancements in power electronic converters, energy storage systems (ESS), and demand response (DR) strategies, which collectively enhance DSM capabilities. Various converter topologies, such as bidirectional converters, multilevel inverters, and soft-switching techniques, are examined for their ability to optimize power flow and improve grid efficiency. Additionally, the integration of solid-state transformers (SSTs), hybrid energy storage systems, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies is discussed as enablers of an interactive and flexible demand-side infrastructure.

Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and Internet of Things (IoT)-based control strategies are emerging as key trends in DSM, enabling predictive analytics, adaptive demand response, and real-time grid optimization. These technologies enhance consumer participation, improve energy efficiency, and support autonomous decision-making in DSM programs.

This study highlights the impact of power electronics-driven DSM solutions on improving power quality, reducing peak demand, minimizing total harmonic distortion (THD), and ensuring grid resilience. The review also addresses challenges related to high implementation costs, cybersecurity risks, and the need for regulatory frameworks to support DSM adoption. Ultimately, the advancements in power electronics-based DSM contribute to the development of a sustainable, intelligent, and future-ready power network, paving the way for next-generation energy management solutions.