Grid Operating System for DER Integration via Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) into electric power systems poses challenges due to complex power flows, variability, and lack of intelligent control, leading to operational complexities and potential infrastructure upgrades, while current management systems are not adequately equipped to handle real-time dynamics and distribution system constraints.
Innovation Solution
A Grid Operating System (GOS) is developed to facilitate the intelligent, coordinated management of DERs and distributed information resources (DIRs) using advanced information and communication technologies, enabling real-time monitoring, control, and optimization across the grid, with a modular, scalable, and adaptive architecture that can operate on multiple tiers and stages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If distributed energy resources (DERs) are integrated into the electric power system at higher penetration levels, then renewable energy generation and environmental benefits are improved, but the complexity of power flows and operational control increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the distribution system into multiple feeders and zones, each managed independently with localized control. This segmentation allows DERs to be integrated at higher penetration levels within specific zones without overwhelming the entire system, managing complexity through hierarchical decomposition of control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces advanced distribution management systems and intelligent electronic devices as intermediary layers between DERs and the bulk power system. These intermediaries coordinate power flows, manage variability, and simplify control by handling local complexity before presenting simplified interfaces to upper-level systems.
2Productivity
If distributed energy resources are integrated without intelligent control systems, then integration speed is improved, but reliability and operational stability deteriorate due to lack of coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring control strategies, establishing interconnection standards, and deploying intelligent electronic devices before DERs are connected. Connection impact assessments and system studies are performed in advance to evaluate potential effects on voltage, frequency, and protection, ensuring reliability is maintained from the outset of integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements real-time feedback mechanisms through intelligent electronic devices that continuously monitor system conditions and automatically adjust DER operation. This feedback control coordinates power flows, maintains voltage and frequency within acceptable ranges, and ensures reliable operation as DER penetration increases.
3Reliability
If connection impact assessments are performed for each DER application, then grid safety is improved, but the time and cost for DER access increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs connection impact assessments and system studies in advance, before DERs are actually connected. By evaluating potential effects on voltage, frequency, protection, and load/generation balance beforehand, the system establishes safety parameters and control strategies upfront, enabling faster subsequent integrations without repeating full assessment processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent develops universal interconnection standards and standardized assessment procedures that can be applied across multiple DER applications. Once control strategies and safety parameters are established for a particular feeder or zone, they can be replicated for additional DER connections, reducing the time and cost of individual assessments while maintaining grid safety.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a power distribution automation applications network includes multiple intelligent nodes in communication with each other, each having a hardware and software platform, with data processing and communications functionality. The intelligent nodes are integrated or embedded with grid components. The nodes each implement a part or whole of a grid operating system that includes a set of software applications for automated and supervisory monitoring, control, protection, and optimization of an electric power system with embedded distributed energy resources and distributed information resources. The grid operating system both manages the grid and facilitates the integration of distributed energy resources and distributed information resources in an electric power system.