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Sustainable Electrification—Advances and Challenges in Electrical-Distribution Networks: A Review

Author

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  • Jimmy Gallegos

    (Department of Electrical Engineering, EPS Linares, University of Jaén, 23700 Jaén, Spain)

  • Paul Arévalo

    (Department of Electrical Engineering, EPS Linares, University of Jaén, 23700 Jaén, Spain)

  • Christian Montaleza

    (Department of Electrical Engineering, EPS Linares, University of Jaén, 23700 Jaén, Spain)

  • Francisco Jurado

    (Department of Electrical Engineering, EPS Linares, University of Jaén, 23700 Jaén, Spain)

Abstract

This paper provides a thorough exploration of the evolution and contemporary trends in electrical-distribution networks, with a focus on smart grids in the context of Industry 4.0. Beginning with the traditional components of electrical grids, the study highlights the transition towards sustainable energy sources and the integration of renewables. Key trends include economic operation, the application of distributed energy resources, and the significance of photovoltaic solar energy. The paper unfolds in seven sections, examining smart-electrical-network architecture, sustainable technology progression, energy efficiency, carbon-emission-reduction challenges, future perspectives, and concluding insights. Each section delves into specific layers and aspects, such as data management, electrical infrastructure, automation, and consumer interaction. The intricate role of smart meters and their impact on energy management is explored, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state and future directions of electrical-distribution networks.

Suggested Citation

  • Jimmy Gallegos & Paul Arévalo & Christian Montaleza & Francisco Jurado, 2024. "Sustainable Electrification—Advances and Challenges in Electrical-Distribution Networks: A Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(2), pages 1-33, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:2:p:698-:d:1318306
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Larisa Gorina & Elena Korneeva & Olga Kovaleva & Wadim Strielkowski, 2024. "Energy‐saving technologies and energy efficiency in the post‐COVID era," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 32(5), pages 5294-5310, October.
    3. Mahyudin Nurain & Zailani Suhaiza & Ezlika M. Ghazali, 2025. "The Antecedents and Outcomes of Energy-Conserving Behaviors Among Industrial and Commercial Prosumers of Net Energy Metering (NEM) in Malaysia," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(18), pages 1-50, September.
    4. Joseph Nyangon, 2025. "Smart Grid Strategies for Tackling the Duck Curve: A Qualitative Assessment of Digitalization, Battery Energy Storage, and Managed Rebound Effects Benefits," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(15), pages 1-38, July.
    5. Lina María Riaño-Enciso & Brandon Cortés-Caicedo & Oscar Danilo Montoya & Luis Fernando Grisales-Noreña & Jesús C. Hernández, 2025. "Sustainable Metaheuristic-Based Planning of Rural Medium- Voltage Grids: A Comparative Study of Spanning and Steiner Tree Topologies for Cost-Efficient Electrification," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(18), pages 1-39, September.
    6. Yacine Bouali & Basem Alamri, 2025. "Enhancing Radial Distribution System Performance Through Optimal Allocation and Sizing of Photovoltaic and Wind Turbine Distribution Generation Units with Rüppell’s Fox Optimizer," Mathematics, MDPI, vol. 13(15), pages 1-34, July.

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