Distributed Energy Grid Control via Information Network Intelligence
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Solution Overview
Problem
The growing deployment of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) in power grids requires new methods of grid control that can operate independently of utility operational systems, as existing centralized solutions are impractical due to variability in local conditions and dependency on utility networks.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize intelligence from information data networks to perform distributed power flow calculations and control, acquiring measurements from sensors at the grid edge, determining observability, and performing state estimation without relying on utility operational data networks, enabling autonomous grid management and optimal dispatch scheduling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If centralized solvers are used to solve power flow problems, then optimal configuration can be computed, but dependency on utility operational networks increases and adaptability to distributed DERs decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized power flow solution into distributed components, with each DER owner or local controller independently solving power flow for their local network segment using locally available measurements and information, eliminating dependency on centralized utility solvers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between utility operational networks and DER control, using information technology networks and standardized data interfaces to enable autonomous operation without direct reliance on utility control systems
2Measurement precision
If real-time measurements from utility operational networks are used, then accurate state estimation can be achieved, but system complexity and operational dependency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables DER systems to self-determine their operational state using only locally available measurements from smart meters, sensors, and distributed monitoring devices, without requiring data from utility operational control networks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of utility-level state estimation capabilities at the distributed level, implementing simplified state estimation algorithms that use local measurements to achieve sufficient accuracy for local control decisions
3Adaptability or versatility
If distributed control is implemented for DERs, then autonomy and adaptability improve, but coordination and system-wide optimization become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges distributed local optimizations by having each DER controller solve power flow and identify optimal configurations, then combining these local solutions through information exchange via IT networks to achieve system-wide optimization without centralized coordination
Data Source
AI summary
Method and systems for aggregation and control of energy grids including distributed energy resources are disclosed. The method and system disclosed use the intelligence available in the information data network, and avoid dependence on the utility/system operator operational data network.