Smart Grid: Improving technology-grid interface and interoperability to support grid modernization

Canada recognizes that a clean electricity future, as a foundation for a low-carbon economy, depends on making major advances in the key areas of clean electricity and grid modernization. These advances will enable a smarter, more flexible and decentralized grid to better facilitate the efficient, reliable and affordable provision of clean electricity.

As the grid evolves, so too will the role of loads. For example, consumers will become more participatory, perhaps by producing their own energy and therefore becoming prosumers (i.e. individuals who both consume and produce), or by actively changing their consumption through smart devices to recognize grid needs and reduce costs. This reality will spur new business models embracing the opportunities presented by such available decentralized energy resources (DERs).

Our areas of focus

This project focuses on bridging the gap between grid-edge technologies (e.g., inverters and flexible loads) and the grid, in other words – the aspects of grid modernization dealing with integration and connection of devices.

It focuses on three main areas of R&D:

• facilitation of connections between inverters and the grid,
• development of methods for distributed energy resource (DER) control and aggregation, and
• mapping and advancement of related grid integration standards.

This project seeks to advance the role of grid-edge, behind-the-meter (BTM) technologies and inverter-based renewable energy sources on a modernized, net-zero supporting electric power system. Working with other international laboratories, advanced inverter functions and control, i.e., those making up the capabilities of grid- following and grid-forming inverters, are tested and assessed for their real-world response and potential to support grid operations. This project also seeks to provide assessments of BTM potential to provide grid services and present some methods for their control and aggregation required to make it possible. Finally, contributions are expected to key grid integration standards to facilitate DER acceptance by utilities.

Major Activities

Our test benches and tools

CanmetENERGY in Varennes, Quebec, conducts applied research aiming to facilitate the integration of renewable DERs to the electric grid and net-zero energy buildings in partnership with industry, university and utilities. To perform this work, the centre uses numerous test benches and tools.

• Grid-Simulator and Power Conversion Equipment Test Facility

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