Distribution System Platform for Grid Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing integration of distributed energy resources and variable generation in electric power systems poses challenges for maintaining distribution system reliability, as existing technologies lack effective solutions for coordinating and controlling demand-side assets and managing bi-directional power flow, leading to potential grid imbalances and reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A Distribution System Platform (DSP) is introduced to facilitate forecasting, scheduling, and maintenance of electrical supply and demand schedules, enabling direct interaction with bulk power system operators, demand response providers, and prosumer assets, and providing visibility and control to maintain distribution system reliability through data processing and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If distributed energy resources and variable generation are integrated into the power system, then renewable energy penetration and demand-side participation increase, but distribution system reliability deteriorates due to lack of coordination and control capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Distribution System Operator (DSO) as an intermediary entity that coordinates between bulk power system operators, demand response providers, and distributed energy resources. The DSO platform provides visibility and control mechanisms to manage bi-directional power flow and maintain reliability standards, resolving the contradiction by enabling renewable integration while preventing reliability deterioration through active coordination.
2Reliability
If conventional generation resources are used to meet reserve and balancing requirements, then system reliability is maintained, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables demand-side assets and distributed energy resources to self-manage their own reserve and balancing requirements through the DSO platform. By allowing these resources to autonomously respond to system needs and earn revenue from providing ancillary services, the system reduces reliance on expensive conventional generation while maintaining reliability, thus resolving the cost-reliability contradiction.
3Loss of energy
If demand-side assets are relied upon to supplement conventional resources, then operational costs decrease, but visibility and control over these assets are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism through the DSO platform that provides bulk power system operators with visibility into demand-side asset status, capacity, and performance. The platform collects data from distributed resources and demand response providers, processes this information, and feeds it back to system operators to enable informed decision-making and coordinated control, resolving the visibility-control limitation while maintaining cost efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A process/method is provided for the management of electric distribution system operations, including accurate and efficient communications and interfaces between the transmission, distribution and residential distribution systems, managed by a distribution system operator responsible for energy balance and reliability through control on a local distribution area, namely between end use customers and the transmission node of the electrical system.