This book presents a comprehensive definition of smart grids and their benefits, and compares smart and traditional grids. It also introduces a design methodology for stand-alone hybrid renewable energy system with and without applying the smart grid concepts for comparison purposes. It discusses using renewable energy power plants to feed loads in remote areas as well as in central power plants connected to electric utilities. Smart grid concepts used in the design of the hybrid renewable power systems can reduce the size of components, which can be translated to a reduction in the cost...