Enriching students´ smart grid experience using programmable devices

The idea of a “smart grid” has taken center stage- an evolution of advanced technologies that make the availability of a smarter, more efficient electrical power grid possible. At the heart of these advanced devices for the smart grid lies the powerful technology of programmable devices, such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) and SoC (System on Chip). Improving the design component, while integrating social aspects of engineering in the undergraduate engineering education, is a concern for educators, industrial employers and agencies concerned with national productivity and competitiveness. Students´ design component at all levels is increasingly focused on renewable energy sources and smart grid due to the increased emphasis in the U.S. on clean energy innovation, generation, and commercialization. This paper presents the current and future efforts in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology Department at Farmingdale State College to attract students to develop Smart Grid related projects using programmable devices, as part of their student research experience, senior projects, and/or participation in national competitions. These projects will be used in summer camps for middle and high school students and teachers. In addition the departmental open houses and other college open forums are always utilized to display student research projects as a way of raising public awareness regarding renewable and sustainable energies.