Texas Microgrid Integrates 9 Different Distributed Generation Sources With Storage

Schneider Electric, S&C Electric Company, and the transmission + distribution company Oncor are teaming up to put together a microgrid featuring (and obviously thus capable of integrating) 9 separate distributed generation sources along with energy storage infrastructure.

According to Oncor, the project represents the “most advanced microgrid in North America,” and will provide greater insight into optimization strategies.

Altogether, the Oncor project features (and integrates) two separate solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays, 5 generators, a propane microturbine, and two energy storage systems. That setup is managed via a Microgrid and Technology Demonstration and Education Center that’s located in Lancaster, Texas.

According to those involved, the microgrids can function either independently or also as a single larger microgrid, depending on needs.

“Improving power reliability and optimizing generation assets requires disruptive technologies that allow customers to work on and off the grid,” stated David Chiesa, the director of Microgrid Business Development at S&C, at the time. “Oncor’s microgrid is showing the world how utilities can help their communities in the future.”

Worth noting here is that the microgrid has been designed to be largely autonomous, and is home to a number of S&C’s grid intelligence and communication technologies solutions. This includes the IntelliRupter PulseCloser technology (which can detect interruptions in grid electricity supply, and can island the microgrid); as well as S&C’s Scada-Mate CX Switeches + Vista underground distribution switchgear, which can then switch things up to allow distributed generation to keep up the electricity supply. This is supported by 200 kW (kilowatts) in storage solutions.

Schneider Electric, meanwhile, has offered up its load preservation systems + demand-side management capabilities — via the PowerLogic and StruxureWare Demand Side Operations system.

“By combining S&C’s solutions with Schneider Electric’s PowerLogic load preservation system, microgrid controller and DSO, I am confident that Oncor’s system is one of the most advanced and comprehensive microgrids in the market today,” commented Philip Barton, the Microgrid Program Director of Schneider Electric.