DER Integration and Automation
Distributed energy resources (DER) such as solar photovoltaics (PV), battery installations and electric vehicles are increasing in popularity in Canberra and we need to understand more about the affect they have on the electricity network and how we can optimise their use.
The DER Integration and Automation project will investigate and test options for how DER can effectively integrate into our energy system and how they can be used by customers to their full potential, via a Distributed Energy Marketplace using a Distributed Energy Resources Management System (DERMS) model for technical validation.
The objective of this project is to understand the data we collect, and the financial and electrical flows that may underpin future market models, and validate the performance of the DERMS model to be able to support the dynamic operation of the network, involving markets.
How the project works
Using the functionality of Evoenergy’s Advance Distribution Management System (ADMS) and DERMS, this project engages a simulated fleet of solar and batteries within a Distributed Energy Marketplace, to demonstrate the ability of software and markets to be able to unlock DER hosting capacity.
Key capabilities:
The project will use the Schneider Electric DERMS module to validate intended DER behaviour, effectively determining ‘operating limits’ for connected DER
DERMS model will identify constraints and publish these to market
deX Marketplace will evaluate offers to generate new DER behaviour schedules
DERMS will evaluate new schedules to resolve potential constraint and set new operational limits for DER which will be engaged by deXMarketplace within the financial parameters
Project architecture supports both dispatch of VPPs and autonomous validation of third party VPP operation
DER behaviour simulation will occur within both deX and DERMS
Project architecture
The architecture of the analysed system is shown below, consisting of five layers:
Layer 1: EcoStruxure DERMS – centralised system that utilises DERs to optimise the distribution grid
Layer 2: IoT hub – a platform that enables communications between multiple systems
Layer 3: deX – a DER Registration platform
Layer 4: VPP – DER aggregator (simulated for this project)
Layer 5: DERs (simulated for this project)
Test cases
Test Case 1 – DERMS initiates dispatch request (via IoT Hub to deX) to DERs to avoid upstream capacity constraint
Purpose – to use DERMS for avoiding predicted grid constraints (overload, reverse flow) on feeder head section and HV/MV supply transformer.
Test Case 2 – Appraisal of VPP call by third party -Individual DER dispatch and constraint identification
Purpose – to use DERMS for validation of planned VPP behavior as response to call by 3rd party (e.g. Retailer) in order to maintain grid reliability and power quality.
Test Case 3 – Avoidance of Network Violation from Natural DER Behavior -Individual DER dispatch and constraint identification
Purpose – to use DERMS to adjust DER typical behavior, and avoid local grid issues caused by high DER penetration.
Evaluation and results
Evoenergy is currently collaborating with project partners Schneider Electric, GreenSync, and Withywindle to complete testing and evaluation. Evoenergy will release the results and findings from the project in the first half of 2021. To find out more visit ARENA’s website: https://arena.gov.au/projects/der-integration-and-automation-project.