One of the biggest needs that grid operators have is the need to predict, plan and manage their grid operations and resources. Resiliency is crucial, customers are demanding affordable rates and there is a growing proliferation of customer distributed energy resources (DERs). Distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS) can help utilities solve reliability issues in a holistic manner.
This white paper outlines the case for DERMS as the next step utilities should consider on their path toward renewables and resilience. The paper outlines five ways in which DERMS address grid challenges. They provide responsive control as well as digital accuracy and speed. They expand local hosting capacity to maximize the number of DERs, microgrids and other renewable assets handled by each system. DERMS also provide improved cybersecurity and help utilities gain regulatory support for their grid road map.
The paper outlines how Western Australia’s Horizon Power has used DERMS to balance and coordinate multiple community DERs. PXiSE also outlines four key next steps for utilities thinking about DERMS.