Utility Interface Device for Distributed Energy Grid Interconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of regulatory approval testing for distributed electrical generation systems, which can be prohibitively expensive for small-scale producers, often leads to delayed or non-compliant connections to the grid, risking safety and environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method using a controller and sensors to interface distributed energy sources with an electric power system, ensuring compliance with standards like IEEE 1547 by selectively connecting or disconnecting the energy source based on monitored parameters, thereby eliminating the need for expensive testing suites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If distributed electrical generation systems undergo full regulatory approval testing to meet IEEE 1547 standards, then compliance and safety are ensured, but the cost increases to US$100,000 or more
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a utility interface device as an intermediary between the distributed electrical generation system and the utility grid. This device includes a controller that acts as a mediator to monitor system parameters and ensure compliance with IEEE 1547 standards, thereby reducing the need for expensive full regulatory approval testing while maintaining safety and compliance through continuous monitoring and control.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility interface device incorporates continuous monitoring of electrical parameters (voltage, current, frequency, power factor) and provides feedback control to maintain compliance with utility requirements. The controller adjusts operating parameters in real-time based on monitored conditions, ensuring ongoing compliance without requiring repeated expensive testing.
2Quantity of substance
If small-scale distributed generation systems skip regulatory approval testing to reduce costs, then the expense is reduced, but safety hazards and environmental risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The utility interface device serves as a safety intermediary that enforces compliance with IEEE 1547 standards through its controller, which monitors and controls the connection between the distributed generation system and the utility grid. This intermediary ensures protective relay coordination, anti-islanding protection, and other safety requirements are met, eliminating safety hazards even when full regulatory testing is skipped.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements pre-configured safety mechanisms and protective controls in the utility interface device before connection to the grid. The controller is pre-programmed with IEEE 1547 compliance requirements and safety protocols, providing beforehand cushioning against potential safety hazards and environmental risks that would otherwise require expensive testing to verify.
3Reliability
If novel distributed generation designs are delayed or not implemented due to expensive approval processes, then regulatory compliance is maintained, but innovation and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The utility interface device acts as a compliant intermediary that allows novel distributed generation designs to connect to the grid without undergoing the full, expensive regulatory approval process. The device's controller ensures IEEE 1547 compliance through continuous monitoring and control, enabling rapid deployment of innovative designs while maintaining regulatory requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility interface device performs self-verification of compliance with IEEE 1547 standards through its built-in monitoring and control capabilities. The controller continuously checks system parameters and adjusts operation to maintain compliance, allowing the system to serve its own regulatory compliance needs without requiring external, expensive testing and approval processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods to firewall distributed energy sources. In one aspect, an apparatus includes: a first connector configured to interface with a distributed energy source; a second connector configured to interface with a connection point of an electric power system; at least one switch coupled between the first connector and the second connector; at least one sensor coupled with the switch; and a controller coupled with the at least one switch, the controller to use the at least one switch to selectively connect or disconnect an electric path between the first connector and the second connector based on signals from the at least one sensor.