Use has been made of advances in solid state devices, power electronics and integrated circuit technology. Computers have played an increasingly important role to predict system performance and to monitor system operation. Important advances in techniques for the analysis of systems have been made. New areas of development have been concerned with HVDC transmission and the interfacing with AC transmission and distribution. Of increasing concern is the design and development of systems to minimize air and water thermal pollution, while still increasing the available energy level to meet the needs of society.
Nuclear plants bring additional environmental and ecological considerations.
Energy management and the proper engineering of new alternative energy sources is of increasing concern. Growth in electrical energy demand has slowed down. However, future increases are expected as suggested measures for pollution control come into being over and above normal load growth. The only rational view as one faces the future is that a great deal of new technology is required when we commit ourselves to controlling the results of technology. Power system engineers are now busily complying with new antipollution legislation and designing systems to meet the ever-greater demands which also economize natural resources and do not detract economically or aesthetically from the environment.