DERMS: Tools and Best Practices

As the penetration level of DER (distributed generators, energy storage devices, and controllable loads) continues to grow on the electric distribution system, these devices will have a significant impact on overall distribution system performance. As a result, continuous monitoring and control of DER may be needed through a distributed energy resource management system (DERMS). DERMS can play not only a significant role in monitoring and control of DERs, but also benefit the distribution utilities through market participation of DERs from the ability to control the dynamic exchange of power between the DERs and the bulk grid over the interconnecting tie-lines. Despite significant benefits, integrating DERMS with distribution systems is challenging owing to the fact that the current industry direction for DER monitoring and control is a separate DERMS which handles the direct interface to DER for monitoring and control purposes rather than DSCADA and DMS. Integrating a DERMS with the DMS will allow the DMS to have a full view of all DER assets connected to the grid. The panel will highlight some of challenges associated with integration of DERMS with DSCADA/DERMS and also focus on industry practices, advances in terms of methodologies, tools and communications interfaces for DERMS integration.