Delivering distribution system flexibility through micro-resilience

This study introduces the specific grid challenges faced at each of four micro-resilence sites and provides an overview of the innovative technical solutions deployed to improve grid flexibility, resilience and improve the distribution system operator customer experience. The sites were chosen due to their remote locations and reliance on a reliable electrical service due to dependent customers or lifesaving functions. Therefore, in addition to providing flexible grid services, when grid connected, there is also the opportunity to provide a reliable electrical supply to islanded pockets when there are high-voltage grid outages. The solution architecture and functions of technology such as the two-terminal power electronic devices (PEDs) and microgrid controller (MGC) are described. The combination of an energy storage system, distributed energy resources and PEDs will provide essential grid support functionality with co-ordination of devices, islanded status and data logging handled by a dedicated MGC. Also presented is the application of the Open Field Message Bus, open-standards communications framework for a field message bus, and a description of the specific interoperability use cases demonstrated within the project. This study provides valuable insights into a leading innovation project, delivered on operational networks to address practical customer issues through flexibility.