Increase of size and complexity, increase of diversity in generation/load, variable nature of renewable energy sources, and continues change of structure (uncertainty) are known as some important characteristics of new power grids. A power system with the mentioned properties should handle complex multi-objective control problems characterized by a high degree of diversification in policies, and widely distribution in demand and supply sources. Smart wide area measurement system (WAMS) provides a key technology for on-line control and protection of modern widely spread power grids. A direct, more precise and accurate monitoring could be achieved by the use of phasor measurements and global positioning system (GPS) time signals. Proper grasp of the present state and a flexible supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system addresses significant elements to maintain wide-area stability and control in the complicated future power grids. This speech provides a brief coverage for recent findings in power grid smart monitoring and control. Some important challenges in conventional power system modeling and control methodologies with probable solutions are explained. The speech is supplemented by illustrative examples.
