Solutions
distributed Energy
Resources (DER)
As the installed base of DERs continues to grow, the number of disruptive effects on the performance and stability of the electric grid will increase dramatically.
GridBridge is working with utility distribution professionals to implement next generation technology solutions that provide both information and control at the grid’s edge. The result is more visibility and control of the DERs while extending the useful life of existing electric grid infrastructure.
PEAK DEMAND REDUCTION AND IMPROVED ASSET UTILIZATION
Grid modernization and upgrades provide opportunities for more precise management and dynamic optimization of power levels in the last mile of the Grid. For example, new tools enable utilities’ Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) and Volt-VAR Optimization (VVO) programs to deliver even better results.
GridBridge is working with electric utilities to better utilize their existing assets and infrastructure. The results can include flattening the feeder voltage profile downstream of the substation, balancing phases, enhancing existing VVO programs, and increasing throughput on feeders.
INCREASED FEEDER PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE
Utilities have been engaged in an ongoing effort to learn about their distribution networks’ performance. AMI has served as an enabler for this information. As more distributed devices are added into the secondary distribution feeder, more information is required.
GridBridge is therefore working with utilities to collect data at key points on the secondary distribution feeder. Integrating data from AMI meters and line sensors to reduce losses, balance load and manage voltage at the Grid Edge improves the distribution networks overall performance and reliability.
In addition, the real-time information can be returned to the substation for additional system performance enhancements in the primary network.
FUTURE TECHNOLOGY NEEDS
The electric grid is facing unprecedented demands that surpass its original design. Electricity now needs to flow more intelligently than only from large generation facilities to an end customer. However, the answer is not to rip everything out and start fresh. Utilities and customers need a feature rich solution closer to the point of end use.
GridBridge has an impressive track record of delivering extremely complex technical solutions to customers. While power electronics-based hardware is a core enabler for modifying power, solutions also often include software and data services.