A Data-Driven Zonal Monitoring Framework Based on Renewable Variability for Power Quality Management in Smart Grids

Ionica Oncioiu (), Mariana Man, Cerasela Adriana Luciana Pirvu and Mihaela Hortensia Hojda
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Ionica Oncioiu: Department of Informatics, Faculty of Informatics, Titu Maiorescu University, 189 Calea Vacaresti St., 040051 Bucharest, Romania
Mariana Man: Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, “Eugeniu Carada” Doctoral School of Economic Sciences, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania
Cerasela Adriana Luciana Pirvu: Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania
Mihaela Hortensia Hojda: Faculty of Economic Sciences, Valahia University, 130024 Targoviste, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 17, 1-24

Abstract: The European energy transition, marked by the increasing share of renewable sources in the production mix, brings to the fore the issue of maintaining power quality under conditions of high variability. This study proposes an adaptive monitoring model based on a zonal classification of electrical networks according to the volatility of net renewable production (wind and photovoltaic). The approach relies on a proprietary Renewable Variability Index (RVI), developed using publicly available European datasets, to assess the mismatch between electricity consumption and renewable generation in six representative countries: Germany, Denmark, Spain, Poland, Romania, and Sweden. Based on this index, the model defines three zonal risk levels and recommends differentiated power quality monitoring strategies: continuous high-resolution observation in critical areas, adaptive monitoring in medium-risk zones, and conditional event-based activation in stable regions. The results demonstrate a significant reduction in data acquisition requirements, without compromising the capacity to detect disruptive events. By incorporating adaptability, risk sensitivity, and selective allocation of monitoring resources, the proposed framework enhances operational efficiency in smart grid environments. It aligns with current trends in smart grid digitalization, enabling scalable, context-aware control and protection mechanisms that support Europe’s sustainability and energy security objectives while contributing to the broader goals of sustainable energy transition and long-term grid resilience.

Keywords: power quality; renewable energy integration; adaptive monitoring; sustainability; smart grids (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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