Microgrid control systems
pv magazine’s market overview of Microgrid control systems (see full article from November 2019, Premium content, see web summary) presents international providers and their products. It is aimed at systems that connect several different residential/commercial/industrial parties or buildings with individual energy system assets to a fully functional microgrid. “Smaller” energy management systems e.g. for single-family homes or individual commercial enterprises are not part of this overview.
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Detailed View
| Name of company | Website of company | Name of product | Product is hardware and/or software-platform | Product standardized or project-specific? | Distribution in which countries? | Unique selling proposition of the product | Comments | Company produces microgrid control hardware | Company programs microgrid control software | Company provides system integration of microgrid control hardware and software | Company provides EPC services for microgrid projects | Company provides operations and maintenance of microgrids | Comments | Central monitoring and control unit (Hardware) | Control unit is standalone product or integrated into other device (if latter, which device?) | Other hardware components (e.g. smart meters, sensors, switches, domestic appliances, …) | Software-Platform for monitoring and control of the microgrid | Software-Platform is a cloud solution or installed on own server or computer? | Software compatible with third party hardware? | Hardware compatible with third party software? | Monitoring and/or control of microgrid via smartphone app? | Comments | Which customers is the product aimed at? (e.g. residential, commercial, industrial, community, campus, military, …) | Focus on offgrid, grid-connected or mobile microgrids? | How many kilowatts of installed generating power can be integrated? (FROM – TO) | How many different generators can be integrated? | AC bus system | DC bus system | Hybrid AC and DC bus system | Which control strategy is used to run the microgrid? (e.g. central control, master/slave control, distributed control, …) | Which components are needed for grid forming in islanding operation? (e.g. battery, diesel generator, …) | Can the system be retrofitted to existing energy system assets? | Can the system be expanded modularly after initial commissioning? | Comments | Supported communication protocols (e.g. Modbus TCP, Sunspec, KNX, Zigbee, …) | Supported communication interfaces (e.g. RS485, Ethernet, Wireless LAN, analog inputs an outputs, …) | Connectable generators (e.g. solar PV, wind turbines, CHP, diesel generators, fuel cells, hydro power plants, …) | Connectable storage systems (e.g. batteries [lead, lithium, redox flow, …], flywheels, heat storage, …) | Connectable loads (e.g. heat pumps, heating boilers, charging stations for e-mobility, refrigerators, …) | What components/brands can be integrated 'plug & play'? | What components/brands have to be integrated manually? | How are components integrated manually? (e.g. connection boxes, command-line interface, …) | Software-Platform has graphical user interface for integration and configuration of external devices? | Software-Platform has graphical user interface for programming energy management options? | Communication between control system and energy system assets is wired or wireless? | SCADA integration possible? | Other options to connect the microgrid to a higher-level distribution grid (e.g. smart meter gateway, CLS-interface, …) | Can smart home systems be integrated into the microgrid? | Is the data encrypted during data transfer? If so, how? | How is the system protected against threats from outside? | How are firmware updates realized? | Comments | Grid conntected operation | Islanding operation | Automated transition from islanding to grid-connected mode and back | Time required for transition from grid-connected to islanded mode (in seconds) | Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) | Operation is also possible without connection to the internet | Operation is also possible without connection to control room of higher-level distribution system operator (DSO) | Asset control of distributed energy resources | Load management defining curtailable loads and priority loads | Automated dispatch control and optimization | Automated Re-dispatching in response to external orders or unplaned internal events | Internal voltage and frequency regulation in islanding mode | Real time active and reactive power control | Control of power exchange and voltage levels at point of interconnection | Aggregated ramp rate control at point of interconnection | Phase balancing between different AC phases | Black start capability | Comments | Increase in self consumption | Increase of self-sufficiency | Peak Shaving | Charging of electric vehicles | Energy management of thermal energy assets? (e.g. heat pumps, thermal storage, …) | Backup power | Zero feed-in | Ancillary services for public grid (e.g. frequency regulation, reactive power control, …) | Consideration of weather forecasts | Consideration of energy load predictions | Consideration of changing energy prices on the energy market | Use of AI or self-lernings algorithms | Blockchain based billing and/or pay as you go solution | Participation in the energy market | Comments | Hardware: One-time acquisition costs for central control unit (without VAT) FROM – TO (approx. retail price in Euro) | Hardware: Monthly maintenance costs for central control unit (without VAT) FROM – TO (approx. retail price in Euro) | Hardware: Costs for other necessary system components? (e.g. smart meters, switches, …) | Software: One-time acquisition costs (without VAT) FROM – TO (approx. retail price in Euro) | Software: Monthly maintenance costs (without VAT) FROM – TO (approx. retail price in Euro) | Are there renting or leasing options? If so, what are those options? | Comments | Price information available | Information on reference projects available | Best practice project – ongrid | Best practice project – offgrid | Data update |
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ABB Power Grids Germany | www.abb.de | ABB Ability e-mesh Control and PowerStore | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide | 100% Renewable Energy possible, 25 yrs experience & 50+ projects worldwide | Proven concept for professional use | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | Can be taylored to specific customer & project needs | yes | Core ABB product | Can be all integrated | yes | both is possible | opt. | opt. | no | Can be taylored to specific customer & project needs | commercial, industrial | offgrid, grid-connected | unlimited | all kind and in parallel | yes | no | no | distributed control | Converter with VGM (Virtual Generator Mode) and battery | opt. | yes | Reliable concept with very high flexibility to adapt | Modbus TCP | all of them | all of them | all of them | all of them | project specific integration | project specific integration | specific connectors (boxes) | opt. | opt. | both | yes | project specific integration | no | yes | ABB Cyber Security concept | project specific integration | Can be taylored to specific customer & project needs | yes | yes | yes | 0 | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | opt. | opt. | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | Can be taylored to specific customer & project needs | yes | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | yes | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | opt. | no | no | opt. | Can be taylored to specific customer & project needs | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | Depending on System size and requirements | no | yes | please see attached pdf, page 26 – Skagerak Arena | please see attached pdf, page 7 – Robben Island | Nov 2019 | |
Ageto | www.agetoenergy.com | Ageto Renewable Controller (ARC) | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide | Simplyfing microgrid controls | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | Standalone | Monitor via Modbus | yes | installed on own server or computer | yes | yes | no | commercial, industrial, campus. 3-phase, 50 kW to 10+ MW | Off-grid and behind-the-meter | 20 kW – 20 MW | unlimited | yes | yes | yes | Central control | energy storage inverter or generator | yes | yes | Modbus TCP or RS485, CANbus, Sunspec | Ethernet, RS485, analog inputs and outputs | Solar PV, wind, energy storage (lithium ion, lead acid, flow), generators | lead, lithium, redox flow | yes | Always expanding, listed on webpage | Ageto developed drivers | yes | yes | both | yes | DNP3 | no | Firewall, VPN Tunnel | As needed | yes | yes | yes | less than 1 | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no | no | no | no | 10000 | 0 | 0 | 20000 – 150000 | 0 | no | yes | yes | Sandbar Solar constructed a new office facility in Santa Cruz, CA and designed the facility to be an off-grid microgrid, bypassing the local electric utility. Ageto partnered with Sandbar to provide the microgrid control system as well as system analysis to determine the optimal solar, battery, and generator sizing to minimize operating costs and maximize renewable energy utilization. ARC provides the primary user interface, real-time controls, and system monitoring of the microgrid power system. ARC has delivered over 95% renewable energy and has operated for over a month straight on 100% renewable power. The off-grid microgrid is providing cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable power than the local utility. | Haley Brothers, an architectural doors company manufacturing commercial building doors in Southern California, installed a microgrid with multiple use cases enabled by ARC. First, Haley Brothers wanted resilient backup power for the Protected Load Panel to maintain continuity of operations during the more frequent power outages. Second, to change utility rates, Haley Brothers needed to reduce their facility demand to less than 20 kW to qualify for the new rate, with ARC peak shaving throughout the day as necessary. Third, Haley Brothers also wanted to reduce the amount of energy purchased from the utility to reduce their carbon footprint as well as saving money. The ARC microgrid controller seamlessly coordinates the microgrid power system enabling the facility to capture the value of the multiple value streams from the energy storage system, saving the facility money. | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||
Al-Bahar / Caterpillar | www.albahar.com | Caterpillar | pure hardware | both | Kuwait | One stop shop for the complete hybrid solution under the umbrella and guarantee of Caterpillar and Al-Bahar | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | standalone | no | yes | cloud solution | yes | no | yes | all | offgrid and grid connected | unlimited | up to 32 | distributed control | battery and diesel generator | yes | yes | modbus TCP | ethernet, wireless LAN | diesel generators, batteries | batteries and capacitors | all | Caterpillar | all | protocol converters and integration | no | yes | both | yes | no | yes | no | antivirus | manually | yes | yes | opt. | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | no | no | no | yes | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | no | no | no | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||||
Bachmann electronic | www.bachmann.info | Smart Powerplant Controller | hardware & software platform | standardized | worldwide | VDE AR N 4110:2018 certificated | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | both, Bachmann M1 | Grid measument modules integrated | yes | installed on own server or computer | no | no | no | industrial | offgrid and Grid connected | unlimited | unlimited | please select | please select | please select | distributed and central control | These components are selected by our customers | yes | yes | Modbus RTU, Modbus TCP, Profinet, Profibus, CAN, CANopen, | analog and digital Inputs and outputs, Ethernet | all kind of power plants | all kind of Storage systems | all kind of component/brands | direct on the PLC or DI/DO/AI/AO | yes | yes | both | yes | all standardized communication | no | yes | yes | yes | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | no | no | no | no | yes | no | yes | yes | no | no | yes | on request | on request | on request | on request | on request | on request | no | yes | https://www.bachmann.info/en/company/news/details/861-zertifizierter-energieparkregler-xxl/d8d3581ed4d8daa9bb85cd6144da5b88/ | https://www.bachmann.info/en/company/news/details/861-zertifizierter-energieparkregler-xxl/d8d3581ed4d8daa9bb85cd6144da5b88/ | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||||
DHybrid Power Systems | www.dhybrid.de | Universal Power Platform (UPP) | hardware & software platform | project-specific | worldwide | Manufacturer Independent, fully scalable, technology independet, Full customization (incl. OEM / Whitelabel), Remote Service and Support, UPS function | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | DHYBRID UPP is a standalone system | A wide range of sensors, smart meters, switches … can be integrated | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | yes | Industrial, Commercial, Utility, Resorts | Off-Grid Hybrid | unlimited | unlimited | yes | opt. | opt. | Distributed Control | a) Diesel Genrator(s) (Master) | PV (Slave) b) Diesel Generator(s) (Master) | PV + Battery (Slave) c) Battery (Master) | PV + Diese Generator(s) (Slave) d) Battery (Master) | PV (Slave) e) Diesel Generator(s) + Battery (Master) | PV (Slave) | yes | yes | Flexible and scalable approach. Projects can be extended independent of Hardware supplier even in one project | Modbus RTU, Modbus TCP, CAN | RS485, RS232, RS422, Ethernet, Digital Input/Output, Analog Input/Output | Solar PV, Wind turbines, diesel genrators, hydro power plants, gas generators | Batteries (Li-Ion, Lead) | No restrictions | Huawei, SMA, Fronius, Sungrow, Schneider Electric, ABB, Socomec, Samsung, LG, KACO, SolarEdge, Hitachi, Growatt, AEG, GE, Omron, DSE, Woodward, DEIF, Comap, Vacon, | Depending on interface | yes | yes | wired communication, wireless optional | yes | opt. | Yes | Industrial Firewall Router (VPN Access) | SD Card or Remote Service | yes | yes | yes | 0.15 seconds | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | no | yes | DHYBRID can implement a wide range of functionalities. | project specific | project specific | DHYBRID offers fully customized solutions. The price depends on the system setup of the client. | no | yes | Mauritius shopping mall. Parallel to the grid (behind the meter application). Grid connection, 2MVA Diesel Gensets, 1.2MWp PV + Battery. The hybrid system is running parallel to the grid with zero-export functionality. It maximizes the the direct use of energy from Solar PV with extremely fast measuring and control (millisecond level). The shopping centre uses 100% of the self-generated electricity and does not feed any into the grid. Excess solar power is stored using special cooling tanks, chillers and a centralized air conditioning system. At night, the energy stored in the special cooling tanks is used for air conditioning in the mall and to cool foods. This leads to a ground breaking energy efficiency and overall system performance. The backup diesel generators and the energy storage system ensure the autonomy of the shopping centre even at full load and the DHYBRID UPP takes the lead to control and manage all different energy sources. In case the grid fails the DHYBRID UPP automatically turns on the Diesel Gensets. The DHYBRID UPP is fully integrated into the distribution panel control including individual load metering with all electrical parameters, automatic transfer switch, breaker control via SCADA, battery for UPS function of security lighting, cash desks etc. and power factor correction. http://www.dhybrid.de/en/case/mauritius-flacq | Cheetah Plains Luxury Lodge. It is a fully offgrid, independent renewable energy supply for the Cheetah Plains Lodge, located in the world-famous Kruger National Park in South Africa. The system comprises three solar plants with total capacity of 300kWp and a 1MWh lithium-ion battery storage system. A diesel generator which is also integrated into the microgrid is only utilized during low irradiation periods to support the storage system. DHYBRID’s Universal Power Platform (UPP) monitors and controls all the components in the system and therefore ensures a reliable energy supply at any time. Unlike traditional independent microgrids where either the diesel generator or the solar installation can be run at a given time, the UPP can control different energy generators simultaneously. This makes the entire system noticeably more efficient, meaning that the diesel generator only needs to be switched on when energy consumption is unusually high or in periods of bad weather. This reduces fuel consumption, noise pollution, and the impact on the environment while extending the generator’s lifespan. The hybrid power plant can be remotely controlled. Real-time monitoring and remote grid maintenance occur via VPN using a SCADA system developed by DHYBRID. Additionally, the DHYBRID UPP offers access to historical data via the DHYBRID web portal. http://www.dhybrid.de/en/press-article/dhybrid-blockpower-supply-self-sufficient-energy-system-for-luxury-lodge-in-kruger-national-park-2 | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||
elgris | www.elgrispower.com | elgris EMS | hardware & software platform | standardized | worldwide | Independent EMS system with flexible adoption to project specific needs | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | With our certified partners we offer full service | yes | Full solution for micro-grids | elgris SMART METER and environmental sensors | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | yes | The EMS can be integrated with the elgris eCloud for online monitoring | The EMS is targeting applications with a power demand > 250 kW | Focus on grid replacement functionality | 250 kW – 10 MW | Maximum 32 generators | yes | yes | yes | Central control with distributed structure | Grid forming device eq generator or inverter | yes | yes | By using standarized communication the system can easily expanded | MODBUS RTU / TCP, SunSpec, CAN, RS-485 | LAN, RS-232, RS-485, CAN | All generators with the elgris SMART METER | All storage with a control system (BMS) | All kind of loads with a control input (load management) | All major brands with an open interface are supported | Brands with a closed communication interface | Intergated webserver for configuration | yes | yes | both | yes | MODBUS TCP interface with Sunspec mapping | no | Yes with TLS | With encryption and passwords | Locally and remote | By using Ethernet connection full flexibiltiy is reached | yes | yes | yes | Depending on the type of coupling this can be 0 seconds for DC coupled systems | opt. | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | opt. | opt. | yes | opt. | yes | yes | opt. | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | P/Q, F/Q, kVAR and PF control | opt. | opt. | opt. | no | no | no | 495 – 2995 | 0 – 50 | 125 (elgris SMART METER) | Included in hardware | Included as a SLA with the hardware | The elgris EMS system is a ready to use solution for a micro grid control system. Depending on the SLA all variable costs can be covered. The complete system is bankable. | yes | yes | The elgris ZEROplus is based on the elgris EMS platform and is used world-wide in many applications where the export of solar power is prohibited and self consumption is increased by intellignet load switching. | The elgris EMS controller is installed on Airport of the Galapagos Islands to reduce the Diesel consumption. | Nov 2019 | ||||
Elum Energy | https://elum-energy.com | ePowercontrol HFS | hardware & software platform | standardized | worldwide | Elum ePower Control HFS is a turnkey controller able to monitor and control PV inverters, Diesel gensets for off-grid and on-grid configuration. HFS controllers performs minimum gensets loading, reverse power protection as well as spinning reserve management for bigger projects | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | datalogger and control unit are one device | we can integrate and provide various type of sensors such as weather stations, I/O module, meters, switches upon request) | opt. | cloud solution | no | no | no | You can of course monitor and control from smartphone and tablet via webpage not app | Industrial, Commercial, Campus, community, telecom | Off-grid, grid-connected, mobile microgrids | 100 kW – 1 MW | from 1 to 8 | yes | yes | yes | central control | Grid or Diesel generator | yes | yes | Modbus TCP/RTU, Sunspec, SNMP, MQTT, Solivia, Kaco, PMU,OCPP | RS485/RS232, RJ45, analog inputs output in option | Solar PV, CHP, Diesel Generators, Hydro, EV | Batteries | heat pumps, charging station | most of inverters brands | upon request | yes | yes | wired communication | yes | smart meter | no | yes VPN | VPN protocl | Through internet automatically | yes | yes | yes | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | not possible | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | some of them possible | yes | yes | opt. | yes | no | no | 3500 – 9000 | on request | free software ePowerMonitor Lite | 200 – 1000 Euro/year | no | 5 years warranties | yes | yes | Azimut360 600kWp SMA 6 gensets without batteries in Gambia for a research center. It helps as well women empowerment for this project https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nT8Ul4GdWOg | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||
Elum Energy | https://elum-energy.com | ePowercontrol MC | hardware & software platform | standardized | worldwide | Elum ePower Control MC is a turnkey controller able to monitor and control microgrids with PV inverters, Diesel gensets and batteries for off-grid and on-grid configuration. MC controllers performs minimum gensets loading, reverse power protection as well as cycling optimization, diesel off mode and spinning reserve management for bigger projects | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | datalogger and control unit are one device | we can integrate and provide various type of sensors such as weather stations, I/O module, meters, switches upon request) | opt. | cloud solution | no | no | no | You can of course monitor and control from smartphone and tablet via webpage not app | Industrial, Commercial, Campus, community, telecom | Off-grid, grid-connected, mobile microgrids | 100 kW – 1 MW | from 1 to 8 | yes | yes | yes | central control | Grid or Diesel generator | yes | yes | Modbus TCP/RTU, Sunspec, SNMP, MQTT, Solivia, Kaco, PMU,OCPP | RS485/RS232, RJ45, analog inputs output in option | Solar PV, CHP, Diesel Generators, Hydro, EV | Batteries | heat pumps, charging station | most of inverters brands | upon request | yes | yes | wired communication | yes | smart meter | no | yes VPN | VPN protocl | Through internet automatically | yes | yes | yes | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | not possible | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | some of them possible | yes | yes | opt. | yes | no | no | from 4500 to 25000 | on request | free software ePowerMonitor Lite | 200 – 1000 Euro/year | no | 5 years warranties | yes | no | Nov 2019 | |||||||||||
Elum Energy | https://elum-energy.com | ePowercontrol PPC | hardware & software platform | project-specific | worldwide | Elum ePower Control PPC controller able to monitor and control microgrids with PV inverters, Diesel gensets and batteries for off-grid and on-grid configuration. PPC controllers performs minimum gensets loading, reverse power protection as well as cycling optimization, diesel off mode and spinning reserve management for powerplants projects wheter in brownfield or greenfield | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | datalogger and control unit are one device | we can integrate and provide various type of sensors such as weather stations, I/O module, meters, switches upon request) | opt. | cloud solution | no | no | no | You can of course monitor and control from smartphone and tablet via webpage not app | Industrial, Commercial, Campus, community, telecom | Off-grid, grid-connected, mobile microgrids | 100 kW – 1 MW | unlimited | yes | yes | yes | central control | Grid or Diesel generator | yes | yes | Modbus TCP/RTU, Sunspec, SNMP, MQTT, Solivia, Kaco, PMU,OCPP | RS485/RS232, RJ45, analog inputs output in option | Solar PV, CHP, Diesel Generators, Hydro, EV | Batteries | heat pumps, charging station | most of inverters brands | upon request | yes | yes | wired communication | yes | smart meter | no | yes VPN | VPN protocl | Through internet automatically | yes | yes | yes | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | not possible | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | some of them possible | yes | yes | opt. | yes | no | no | on request | on request | on request | no | 5 years warranties | yes | no | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||
Elum Energy | https://elum-energy.com | ePowercontrol SD | hardware & software platform | standardized | worldwide | Elum ePower Control SD (Solar Diesel) is a nude controller able to monitor and control microgrids with PV inverters, Diesel gensets for off-grid and on-grid configuration. SD icontroller performs minimum gensets loading for only one genset and is a competitive controller for simple and stardard Solar Diesel projects in many countries | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | datalogger and control unit are one device | we can integrate and provide various type of sensors such as weather stations, I/O module, meters, switches upon request) | opt. | cloud solution | no | no | no | You can of course monitor and control from smartphone and tablet via webpage not app | Industrial, Commercial, Campus, community, telecom | Off-grid, grid-connected, mobile microgrids | 20 kW – 300 kW | 1 | yes | yes | yes | central control | Grid or Diesel generator | yes | yes | Modbus TCP/RTU, Sunspec, SNMP, MQTT, Solivia, Kaco, PMU,OCPP | RS485/RS232, RJ45, analog inputs output in option | Solar PV, CHP, Diesel Generators, Hydro, EV | Batteries | heat pumps, charging station | most of inverters brands | upon request | yes | yes | wired communication | yes | smart meter | no | yes VPN | VPN protocl | Through internet automatically | yes | yes | yes | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | not possible | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | some of them possible | yes | yes | opt. | yes | no | no | from 4500 to 25000 | on request | free software ePowerMonitor Lite | 200 – 1000 Euro/year | no | 5 years warranties | yes | yes | Acemco ABB Inveters 80kWp in Lebanon for a College university Displaying monitoring for sensibilization | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||
Energytion Power Systems | www.renovagy.com | Microgrid EMS | hardware & software platform | both | EU, Latin America | Compact, multilevel (local server & cloud based) | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | no | Standalone local & cloud based | Smart sensors, distributed actuators, local web server | opt. | both is possible | opt. | no | opt. | commercial & industrial, community | unlimited | unlimited | opt. | opt. | opt. | multilevel | Battery, PV, power electronics | yes | yes | Modbus, LoRa | RS485, Ethernet, Wifi, other options | PV, wind, minihydro, Gensets (gas, diesel) | Batteries lithium | Yes | Several | Most | Customization | yes | yes | both | yes | yes | Special security strategy | Independent subnets | Online | yes | opt. | yes | 10 ms | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | opt. | yes | opt. | opt. | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | opt. | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | no | no | no | 200 – 5000 | 0 – 300 | various | 0 – 15000 | 0 – 500 | TPF | yes | no | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||
Engie EPS | https://engie-eps.com | PROPHET EMS Microgrid | hardware & software platform | both | EU, USA, APAC, Africa | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | The control is performed through a network of smart control cabinets. | Power meters, temperature and humidity sensors, meteo station, gas and fire detection, switches, contactors and communication boards | yes | both is possible | yes | opt. | yes | Independent Power Producers, Utilities, Commercial, Industrial, Communities, Academic Campus | Applicable to all solutions; great experience on offgrid solutions | 35 kW – 100+ MW | Battery Energy Storage Systems, Diesel Generators, PV Inverters, Wind Turbines, Hydrogen Stations, Waste-To-Energy plants, Hydro Turbine | yes | yes | yes | Master/Slave(=central) and soon distributed | Batteries and power conversion system are sufficient to form the grid in islanded operation. More specifically , we should include: Battery Energy Storage System (EEPS EnergyHouse or Third Party), Power Conversion System (EEPS PowerHouse or Third Party) and, if needed, Grid Interconnection (EEPS ComHouse) | yes | yes | ModBus TCP, CanBus, PROFINET | RS485, Ethernet, Analog I/O, Wireless for some components | solar PV, wind turbines, CHP, diesel generators, fuel cells, hydro power plants | Lead, LMO, LTO, NMC, LFP, Sodium, Hydrogen P2P, flywheel, heat and water storages | charging stations for e-mobility, heat pump, boilers, electrolyzers, constant power loads, constant impedance load | All EEPS HyESS product, specifically designed for PROPHET EMS | Third parties components, with reference to the communication mapping | Communication protocols and functions are integrated and tested in house to maximise reliability | no | yes | wired communication | yes | Firewall allows communication at a higher level, including M-Guard secure connection | yes | Yes, through VPN communication | System under certification of IEC 62443 | Manually or from remote with opt. components | yes | yes | yes | Seamless transition, <1s | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | primary frequency regulation secondary frequency regulation fast frequency services contingency frequency services inertial control support voltage and reactive power support intentional islanding, if allowed | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | opt. | PROPHET EMS Microgrid is sold only as part of ENGIE EPS Turn-key solutions, including ENGIE EPS Energy Storage System as pivot of the entire microgrid. | no | yes | PROPHET Microgrid at Politecnico di Milano – Italy – October 2018 This microgrid serves as a development and training testrig for ENGIE-Eps, as well as a research lab for the prestigious Department of Energy of Politecnico di Milano. In this context the PROPHET EMS has been developed, leveraging on the possibility to optimally manage and operate the following assets: – 3 PV inverters; – 1 Battery Energy Storage System; – 1 Hydrogen unit, including both P2G and G2P stages; – 1 EVSE; – 2 Heat Pumps; – 1 water desalinization plant; – 1 fully programmable electronic load; – 1 microturbine with cogeneration possibility; – 1 absorber. This microgrid can operate either in stand-alone and in grid connected mode, exchanging power with the university campus network. | LIFOU Project – New Caledonia – September 2019 ENGIE Eps supplied a 5.4MW/4.6MWh Battery Energy Storage System equipped with PROPHET EMS for the optimal management of the local microgrid, currently serving approx. 10,000 inhabitants. The ENGIE Eps system allow smooth operation either in presence and absence of diesel generators, with seamless transition between these modes. The microgrid generation park is completed by wind, biofuel and photovoltaic units also. Such a mix leads to 80% renewable generation, with a 100% target by early next decade. The ENGIE-Eps PROPHET EMS allows: – no worries integration of Renewables; – providing spinning reserve, frequency regulation, synthetic inertia and load sharing when operated in parallel to the gensets, with consequent significant fuel savings; – performing seamless on-grid/off-grid and viceversa transitions; – ensuring voltage and frequency regulation when islanded operated (no gensets in parallel); – performing Renewables energy shifting; – black-starting the substation, overcoming the inrush of transformers; + Anjouan – Comoros – January 2020 ENGIE Eps is hybridizing the present diesel generation fleet with a 2.7 MW PV plant and 2.7 MW/2.85 MWh Battery Energy Storage System. With the aim of minimizing the diesel consumption, maintaining the microgrid stability but without taking over the local utility duties, ENGIE-Eps has adapted the PROPHET EMS featuring both day-ahead dispatching and real time control.The former deploys advanced machine learning techniques, leading also to solar forecasting, and optimal power Flow functionalities for elaborating the recommended day-ahead dispatching to the utility. While in real time PROPHET EMS takes care of possible unbalances, contributing to maintain the microgrid stability. | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||||
Fenecon | www.fenecon.de | FEMS (FENECON Energy Management System) | hardware & software platform | both | EU, Africa | OpenSource system (based on OpenEMS) | OpenEMS was awarded with different awards, e.g. PV Magazine Energy Storage Highlight 2019 (3rd place) and PV Magazine Top Business Model 2018. More than 200 developers are working for OpenEMS in different public R&D projects and at the member companies. | no | yes | yes | no | no | yes | standalone unit | many implemented devices | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | yes | residential, commercial, industrial, community, campus, virtual power plants, power quality and grid support | grid-connected | unlimited | unlimited | yes | opt. | opt. | central control | PCS with island mode or diesel generator | yes | yes | all available protocols, see www.openems.io | all available communication interfaces, see www.openems.io | all generators | all storage systems | all loads | abstract platform approach allows to integrate all components by plug&play as long as relevant interface and protocol are implemented | manual integration is easily accessible due to open source approach | connection terminals for e.g. RS485, Ethernet and others are available | yes | yes | wired communication | yes | yes, on application basis | yes | yes | encrypted communication | automatic release | yes | yes | yes | 1 | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | frequency regulation, reactive power control, phase balancing | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | all functions are bases on apps and can also be used in any combination | 400 – 2000 | no mounthly costs | 200 – 500 | depending on app prices; apps are provided by different companies on an app store | no mounthly costs | Apps are either based on one-time acquisition costs or monthly rates, depending on the business case of the app developer | yes | yes | 50 kW / 60 kWh commercial scale storage system at FENECON headquarter; 32A connection to company sub-grid and 63A to public grid; ESS supplies 5 charging stations (2 x 22kW AC, 2 x 11 kW AC, 1 x 24 kW DC-wallbox) and supports with peak-shaving and intelligent charge-point management; additional apps which are implemented are PV own consumption app to increase own-consumption of rooftop PV in the company, day-ahead app to use volatile stock market energy prices as well as virtual power plant connection with blockchain (https://blogpv.net/) | Project for BayWa r.e. in Sambia; 86 kWp PV with 160 kW / 160 kWh storage system consisting of 4 FENECON Commercial 60-40-40 DC-storage units, which are clustered on 2 AC-buses in order to supply a farm including water pumping, irrigation as well as offices and others; running fully-automatic since >2 years; weak-grid operation with grid-failure for up to 16h per day; absolute zero feed-in requirement; no additional diesel genset or others, all has to be supplied by PV and storage and managed by the EMS https://www.baywa-re.com/en/news/details/pilot-project-in-africa-completed/ | Nov 2019 | ||||||
Ferntech | https://ferntech.io | UMC (Universal Monitoring & Control) | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide | Visual programming tools to design microgrid control algorithms from the web-portal | White Label, Universal, sub MW, User-friendly | no | yes | yes | no | no | We offer the tools for the O&M of off-grid power systems | yes | Standalone product | We do not offer other components, but we can specify/recommend which ones could be used. | yes | cloud solution | yes | yes | no | Industrial, Energy Access, commercial | OffGrid, Diesel Hybrid, Mobile microgrids | 10 kW – 1 MW | As many as the genset controller enables | yes | yes | yes | Central control | Battery, Bi-directional inverter, Genset | yes | yes | All open protocols used within the physical layers | CAN, RS485, RS232, Ehernet, USB, Digital I/O | Inverters, Solar chargers, Diesel generators | Lithium batteries | external power relays for load shedding | Power electornics: SMA, Victron, Steca, Schneider, Studer, Morningstar, Voltronics, Eltek; Batteries: Pylontech, BYD, Autarctech; Genset controllers: Comap, Deepsea, CAT; Power meters: Qeed, Carlo Gavazzi, E-Gauge; Flow meters: Technoton; Weather sensors:Rainwise, IMT solar; | yes | yes | wired communication | opt. | TBD | opt. | Yes. Via industry standard encyprtion methods | via Firewalls. | User updates the firmware manually | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | opt. | opt. | yes | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | no | opt. | opt. | opt. | no | opt. | yes | no | Low Voltage grid support | opt. | opt. | no | no | no | no | 500 – 1500 | TBD | 200 – 500 | TBD | no | yes | yes | Toghether with our customers Kverneland Energi (https://kvernelandenergi.no/), we've implemented a control for 'end-of-line Low-Voltage grid support'. More information here: https://www.lysenett.no/nyheter/tester-batteri-i-nettet-article15252-15091.html https://energiteknikk.net/2019/07/tester-batterier-som-spenningsstotte specs: – 230V grid – 3 SMA Sunny Island – 1 Tesvolt Battery 19,6 Kwh | Toghether with our partners MFT (https://www.mft-koeln.de/) and Colenergy (https://colenergy.co/) we've developped a monitoring and control platform for a off-grid Reverse Osmosis (RO) water disalination plant. This 'light-house' project proved the flexibility of our technology to monitor and control both the energy and the water systems. A business model is also being tested based on gallons sales of clean water to the community. That project was selected as one of the best water-projects in Latin-America. more info here: https://ferntech.io/industrial-applications https://www.dw.com/en/clean-water-for-the-wayuu-in-colombia/av-44038759 https://www.kfw.de/stories/economy/innovation/drinking-water-demineralization-colombia/ | Nov 2019 | |||||||||||
GreenCom Networks | www.greencom-networks.com/en | energy information brokerage platform (eibp) | hardware & software platform | both | EU 28+2 | end-2-end solution for connecting & controling DER, VPP integration, optmization & forecasting, visualization, billing information as well as community product enabling energy sharing | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | standalone gateway | smart meters, EV, batteries, heat pumps, storage heaters, small wind turbines, micro CHPs | yes | cloud solution | yes | yes | yes | residential, commercial, community | grid-connected | 0,1 kW – 10 MW | unlimited | yes | opt. | yes | Local control, global or a mixture of global and local | battery, production device (PV, micro CHP, meters) | yes | yes | Modbus, Sunspec, EEBUS, misc proprietary, more than 50 brands integrated | RS485, Ethernet, Wireless LAN, USB adapters | Solar PV, Micro CHP, small wind turbines | Batteries, storage heater | heat pumps, heating blade, heating boilers, charging stations, storage heaters, Electric vehicles | More than 50 brands integrated, among others brands like Tesla, SMA, Sonnen, Viessmann, Keba, NewMotion, LG or BYD – list can be provided upon request, but is not open for public | There is no manual processes; not supported smart devices can be connected via a driver or directly using a backend to backend connector. | – | yes | yes | both | yes | using GreenCom APIs | yes | Fully E2E encryption | E2E data encryption, firewalls, RBAC, external security audits | over the air | yes | no | no | no | not possible | not possible | yes | yes | yes | opt. | no | yes | opt. | opt. | no | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | not part of our offering | GCN does not give price indications to the public | no | yes | For its smart district project in the Stegerwaldsiedlung, Cologne, RheinEnergie tasked GreenCom Networks with connecting the estate’s distributed energy resources to its energy IoT platform, building an energy community, connecting the district to a virtual power plant (VPP) and optimisation of energy flows. Going live in 2017 the project integrates solar PV, battery storages, heat pumps, heating blades, storage tanks and district heating accumulating to more than 3 MW generation capacity. Project benefits: 60% CO2 reduction, 70% energy independence, higher customer retention and satisfaction, better grid balancing via VPP integration and more. For more details see Case study attached to email. | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||||
gridX | https://gridx.ai | Microgrids | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide | Until now, gridX is the furthest developed platform that enables the management and administration of decentralized energy units and is used by big companies. Within one platform gridX enables unlimited possibilities and usecases tailored to the needs of the customers. gridX is the first company that connects an IP with a physical load-profile. The company offers a full-service and OEM-agnostic solution of self-developed hard- and software, a holistic solution for the load and capacity management along with real-time remuneration as well as the implementation of deep convolutional neural networks and frequent pattern mining leading to an 11x better device recognition than competitors. gridX provides highest safety standards, over-the-air microupdate mechanisms and high-speed device implementation based on AI within 4 hours. The modular design enables great adaptation to customer requirements. The result is our reliable IoT Edge Gateway and our scalable platform. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | control system is produced by ourselves | yes | yes | smart meter, switches, sensors, inverters, domestic appliances, heat pump, batteries, fuel cell, pv, ev … | yes | both is possible | opt. | opt. | yes | A smartphone app is planned in the development roadmap | Utilities, Smart District Operator, Energy Supplier, Property Developers, OEMs | grid-connected | unlimited | unlimited | yes | yes | yes | depending on the customer usecase (central control, master/slave control, distributed control) | no island operations | yes | yes | Modbus TCP, RTU, Sunspec, EEBUS, SG ready, LGtolan | RJ45, RJ12, LAN/ Ethernet, RS232 , RS485, CANBUS, analoge inputs and outputs, wireless LAN, | pv, CHP, batteries, inverters, fuel cells, heating systems and cooling systems, charging stations | all kind of batteries, heat storage, hydrogene plants | heat pump, batteries, fuel cell, heating boiler, charging stations, cooling compressor | all components which are part of our supported appliances list (SMA, solaredge, huawei, tesla, viessmann, BYD,…) | components which are not part of protocol alliances have to be integrated manually | Drivers are installed on the gridBox | yes | yes | wired communication | opt. | yes we can also receive data from smart meter gateways, for example | opt. | yes, VPN | it meets the highest technical standards and is pentested several times successfully | with the help of our overtheair update mechanism and our own device service system | yes | no | no | – | yes | only in grid connected mode | only in grid connected mode | yes | yes | yes | opt. | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | no | yes | VIShare Community https://www.viessmann.de/de/vishare-energy-community.html Thanks to gridX's IoT platform, the ViShare Energy Community Flatrate has been added to the Viessmann portfolio as an innovative and digital power product. The gridBox serves as a reliable communication gateway. With the ability to monitor and control the devices, prosumers can work together in an intelligent network to use energy more efficiently. With the gridBox as the brain of the network and an energy meter, customers meet all the requirements for the ViShare Energy Community. This combination allows optimized consumption of self-generated energy, without the need for expensive and process intensive smart meters or other measuring units. “The gridBox represents a complementing element for our E&H systems as well as central monitoring part for our ViShare Energy Community. I enjoy working with our product development partner as pragmatism, timeliness and thinking outside of the box, justified the choice of gridX.” Christian Harms-Ensink (Head of E&H System Solutions at Viessmann) | https://gridx.ai/microgrids/ | Nov 2019 | |||||||||||
Inaccess | www.inaccess.com | UNITY H-PPC | hardware & software platform | standardized | worldwide | Programmable Hybrid Power Plant Controller | PV, Batteries, Diesel GenSet, Li-Ion, Lead-Acid | yes | yes | yes | no | no | UNITY H-PPC is targeted to Owners, EPCs and O&Ms globally | yes | Standalone; can be also integrated into Inverter Containers | Includes optionally Meters, Networking, Comms | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | yes | H-PPC is integrated to UNITY-CMS (Central Cloud Monitoring) | Oil & Gas, Utility, Industrial, Commercial, Community, Campus, Military, Large Residential | All Off Grid, Grid Connected, Mobile are supported | 10 KW – 100 MW | unlimitted | yes | opt. | opt. | All strategies are supported through UNITY PPCs architecture: Central Control for single-site, Master/Slave or Distributed Control optionally for larger sites | Battery, DG can be used, depending on Site Configuration | opt. | opt. | Modbus, DNP3, IEC, OPC | RS485, Ethernet, Analog/Digital Inputs/Outputs | PV, Wind, CHP, DG, FuelCells, Hydro | Batteries Lithium, Lead, others | Any | Most vendors available today; others at client's request | Any new vendor can be added at client's request | New Configuration File, Online Spreadsheet-like config | opt. | opt. | wired communication | yes | Configurable | opt. | Yes; end to end SSL encryption, SSL certificates & SSH Keyes deployed everywhere | PKI infrastructure everywhere, Access based on SSH keys, Authentication SSL certificates, additionally firewalls deployed in each of the sites | Over secure channels | yes | opt. | opt. | 1 second | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | opt. | yes | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | All options above can be supported by the modular programmable platform of H-PPC, depending on the user/system requirements | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | Yes; such as P(f) (FR), Q(V), AVR, Cos(Phi) | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | no | opt. | All options above except Blockchain can be supported by the modular programmable platform of H-PPC, depending on the user/system requirements | From 50000 EUR onwards, depending on site size, MW/MWh, N of Controlled Devices, Strategies | From 1KEUR/Month; Depending on the SLA (8*5, 24*7, …), Response Time, Supported Functions | Few KEUR for various meters; Network Switches are part of the main solution | Included in the Main System price | Included in the Main System price | optionally a partner can license SW-only, only on specific, approved Hardware configurations | Pricing assumes an Upfront (System cost) as above, plus a Yearly Fee that is a fraction of the Upfront | yes | yes | On-Grid University & Hospital Campus, with PV, Batteries, Diesel GenSets | Off Grid Oil rig in the desert, with Grid Forming capabilities, and a set of PV, Batteries, Diesel Gensets | Nov 2019 | ||
Microgrid Encorp | www.encorp.com | Goldbox | pure hardware | project-specific | worldwide | 400+ project 30-year experince global base and $65M Gold Box investment which led to the development of Egility Control Platform. Easily scalable and modular solutions with unique technical capabilities | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | can be integrated into Egility Platform | External I/O expansion modules | opt. | not applicable | opt. | yes | no | hospitals, commercial, industrial, community, campus, military | grid-connected | 50 kW – 500 MW | unlimitted | yes | no | no | Master Slave Control with limited Slave autonomy | variable | yes | yes | Varies | Varies | Physical connection then software communication configuration | opt. | yes | both | yes | yes | yes | no | Installed in a hardened network environment | n/a | yes | yes | yes | variable | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | hz, kvar, real power | no | no | no | no | no | no | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | no | no | yes | Santa Rita Jail, – Located in San Francisco, USA. One of the most complex microgrids in the US consisting of 5 MW of wind, fuel cell, solar and diesel generation with one point of common coupling to Pacific Gas & Electric grid. Also, includes a dynamic load shedding system for the 1 million square foot campus, see attached slides for more details | Xaranna Lodge, Botswana. Offgrid Microgrid consists of solar, battery and diesel generation. Objective of the project is to ensure power availability to he load while maximizing the PV as source of energy, thus minimizing diesel usage. The contorl system orchestrates the PV, BESS and diesel generators to best obtain project goals. System commissioing was in March 2017 | Nov 2019 | |||||||||||||
Microgrid Encorp | www.encorp.com | Egility Control Platform | hardware & software platform | project-specific | worldwide | 400+ project 30-year experince global base and $65M Gold Box investment which led to the development of Egility Control Platform. Easily scalable and modular solutions with unique technical capabilities | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | Standalone | YES (Multiple Connection Capability | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | no | hospitals, commercial, industrial, community, campus, military | grid-connected | 50 kW – 500 MW | unlimitted | yes | opt. | opt. | Distributed Control Architecture | variable | yes | yes | Varies | Varies | Phsyical connection then software driver configuration | yes | yes | both | yes | yes | yes | multiple options available | multiple options available. Lowest would be hardened network. Highest level would be mutliple layers of hardware and software security as required. | Patches | yes | yes | yes | variable | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | hz, kvar, real power | yes | yes | yes | opt. | no | yes | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | no | no | yes | 1. Maui Brewing Company, see attached Press Release and 2. E.ON LES Microgrid Located in Simris, Sweden. Islanded microgrid for a small community in Southern Sweden. This is the first energy island in Scandanevia. Microgrid consists of solar, wind, battery and diesel generation. Project was commissioined in August 2018. The project is supported by the EU innovation project Horizon2020 and their InterFlex programme. The project has cost approximately 35 million SEK, whereof E.ON has funded 50 percent. Projects is among 2019 Award finalists for the EU Sustainable Energy Awards' competition. Live project operation can be seen here: https://les.eon.se/ | Singita Lodge, South Africe. Offgrid Microgrid consists of solar, battery and diesel generation. Objective of the project is to ensure power availability to he load while maximizing the PV as source of energy, thus minimizing diesel usage. The contorl system orchestrates the PV, BESS and diesel generators to best obtain project goals. System commissioing was in March 2017 | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||||
OpenEMS Asscociation | www.openems.io | OpenEMS | pure software-platform | both | worldwide | OpenSource system | OpenEMS was awarded with different awards, e.g. PV Magazine Energy Storage Highlight 2019 (3rd place) and PV Magazine Top Business Model 2018. More than 200 developers are working for OpenEMS in different public R&D projects and at the member companies. | no | yes | no | no | no | yes | runs on each Linux PC | many implemented devices | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | residential, commercial, industrial, community, campus, virtual power plants, power quality and grid support | grid-connected | unlimited | unlimited | yes | opt. | opt. | central control | PCS with island mode or diesel generator | yes | yes | all available protocols, see www.openems.io | all available communication interfaces, see www.openems.io | all generators | all storage systems | all loads | abstract platform approach allows to integrate all components by plug&play as long as relevant interface and protocol are implemented | manual integration is easily accessible due to open source approach | depends on EMS hardware | yes | yes | both | yes | yes, on application basis | yes | yes | encrypted communication | automatic release | yes | yes | yes | 1 | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | frequency regulation, reactive power control, phase balancing | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | all functions are bases on apps and can also be used in any combination | depending on app prices; apps are provided by different companies on an app store | Apps are either based on one-time acquisition costs or monthly rates, depending on the business case of the app developer | no | yes | 5 ESS with 100 kW / 120 kWh each in Vienna are connected to the LV-side of grid transformers; they combine following apps: 1) peak-shaving, 2) feed-in shaving, 3) phase balancing, 4) VPP connection to Wien Energie for energy market participation, 5) SCADA connection to Wiener Netze for DSO grid support; https://fenecon.de/blog/neues-von-fenecon-1/post/projektexpose-netzspeicher-43 | Project in Bavaria with 20 kW woodgas-powered CHP unit (Spanner re²) and DC-connected FENECON Commercial system; commissioned in 2016, EMS manages PV, CHP, storage system and blackstart-/island operation | Nov 2019 | |||||||||||
Phoenix Contact | www.phoenixcontact.com | PLCnext Hybrid Control | hardware & software platform | both | typical PV-markets | modular in hardware and function | The system is based on our latest standard PLC platform which allows to use pre-defined function sets as well as own code based on IEC61131, High-level language or even Matlan Simulink | yes | yes | yes | no | no | due to the specific demands in such projects, we prefer to have a solar/Hybrid EPC in order to do the individual adaption | yes | stand-alone as IP20 set or boxed version for wall mounting | wheather sensors, load flow sensors, protection relays, energy meters, demand site management | yes | installed on own server or computer | yes | yes | opt. | modularity in terms of hardware means: usability of all brands of PV-Inverters, genset controllers via standard interfaces or extra I/O points, modularity in terms if software means: pre-defined functions in libriaries or as individual code for specific functions, operator can use own existing code or can create exclusive code for his application | the simpliest system is interlocking PV Power Generation with Gensets in order to avoid reverse power, that is starting pricewise at around 1000€, due to modularity there are no boundries upwards, depending on the optimization goal | all variants are possible | unlimited | unlimited | yes | opt. | opt. | central control with opt. distributed sub-controls, using rule-based control strategy with machine learning as further optimization | Diesel or Gas Gensets, batteries, island-inverters as voltage sources | yes | yes | modularity is the key, as mentioned before | support of physical interfaces an their typical protocols, the system can be adopted to proprietary protocols | support of physical interfaces an their typical protocols, the system can be adopted to proprietary protocols | all of them in terms of communication, which asset makes sense when at what size depends on the simulation results | all of them in terms of communication, which asset makes sense when at what size depends on the simulation results | all of them in terms of communication, which asset makes sense when at what size depends on the simulation results | PV inverters and wheather sensors from Solarworx libriary, Gensets with Cummins Power Command or Woodward easYgen and many more | that is to be checked depending on interface, protocol and revision of third party device | if there is a physical interface existing, we will need the appropriate protocol description in order to create a driver function block which will be afterwords included in the libriary | yes | yes | both | yes | via standard protocols | yes | no encryption required on the field level if the communication lines to not go beyond the network boundaries | VPN, TLS 1.2 | manually update if demanded | yes | yes | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | mainly due to function of used third party assets | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | no | no | from 1000 onwards | no mounthly costs | from 2000 onwards | no mounthly costs | not via Phoenix Contact | yes | yes | Softdrink producer in Nigeria, 10MW Diesel/Gas Gensets with 1MWp PV power and load management | Nov 2019 | ||||||||
Qantic GmbH | www.qantic.com | Q-System | pure software-platform | both | worldwide | optimization engine build on artificial intelligence | Q-System is designed to integrate existing energy management systems or microgrid contollers | no | yes | no | no | no | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | opt. | all | all | unlimited | unlimited | yes | opt. | yes | central control based on AI algorithms | yes | yes | Modbus TCP and others | solar, wind, diesel/gas enigines, chp, batteries, … | batteries, heat storage | no | yes | both | opt. | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | frequency regulation, balancing power | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | Our AI-based algorithm reduces costs and emissions compared to standard apporaches | no | no | Nov 2019 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
S&C Electric Company | www.sandc.com | GridMaster | hardware & software platform | project-specific | worldwide | Designed for Microgrids, Evolving Code, Embedded Cybersecurity, Distributed Control | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | standalone | yes | installed on own server or computer | opt. | opt. | no | industrial, community, campus, military, utility | offgrid, grid-connected and mobile | 10 kW – 100 MW | unlimited | yes | yes | opt. | distrubted control | yes | yes | The GridMaster communicates using standard protocols, including Modbus, DNP3, CANbus, and JSON. | Communications can be made over the network using TCP or UDP and over direct serial communications using RS232, RS485, or any custom protocol. | PV, Wind, CHP, Diesel, Fuel Cell | Battery and Flywheel | Building automation systems | Depends on architecture | Generation assets | Networking equipment | yes | yes | both | yes | Economic optimization from third party markets, weather | opt. | encrypted using 256-bit SSL | All data in motion is also encrypted and the operating system on each IPC is “hardened” according to the latest Secure Technology Implementation Guidelines provided by the Department of Defense | Patch | yes | yes | yes | Seconds | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | frequency regulation, reactive power, demand charge management | yes | opt. | opt. | yes | no | yes | 250000 – 700000 | 2500 (depends on geographic location) | Included with hardware | Included with hardware | Included with hardware | no | yes | yes | S&C designed and built the Ameren Technology Applications Center (TAC) microgrid, which is one of the few microgrids in the world that operates at utility-scale voltages, between 4 kV and 34.5 kV, and has multiple levels of control. It is also the first investor-owned utility microgrid to island customers on an active feeder. The microgrid utilizes two 500 kW natural gas generators, a 125 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) array, a 50 kW wind turbine, and a 250 kW PureWave® Storage Management System (SMS), totaling approximately 1.4 MW in generation. The microgrid assets are managed by S&C's IPERC GridMaster microgrid controller. The microgrid is capable of operating in a variety of use cases including grid-tied, islanded, frequency control, demand response, peak load shaving and storm preparedness. | S&C is providing EPC services for the design and build of a microgrid for an offgrid industrial site in Oahu, Hawaii. The microgrid will serve the various loads and integrate multiple distributed generation sources including roof top solar arrays, diesel generators and a battery energy storage system. The 500 kW/1 MWh ESS is comprised of an S&C PureWave® SMS-250 and an LG Chem lithium-ion battery system. S&C IPERC is providing the GridMaster® Microgrid Control System to complete the 100% islanded microgrid site maximizing renewable assets and minimizing diesel fuel consumption. The microgrid incorporates 2.0 MW of generation provided by 500 kW generators, 500 kW of energy storage, and 1.0 MW of solar power. | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||
Siemens | www.siemens.com/microgrids | Microgrid Control – a SICAM application | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide | Robust open system | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | Only O&M for automation solution | yes | Standalone | can be connected with standardised communication protocols | yes | installed on own server or computer | no | no | yes | commercial, industrial, community, campus, military, remote locations | All | up to 100 MW | 8 different types | yes | opt. | opt. | central control | Any grid forming equipment | yes | yes | Open system, DC bus logic may be added on project specific bases | Modbus TCP , IEC104, DNP and other protocol in energy field | RS485 Ethernet, analog inputs/outputs discreet signals | PV, wind, diesel, gas, biogas, fuel cells, CHP, CCHP, hydro power plants | lead/lithium, redox flow BESS, Flywheels , heat storage | All loads that we can communicate with a standardized protocol | All components supporting standardized protocols | Components with analog/ digital I/O and proprietary protocols | Connection box or protocol adapter | yes | yes | both | yes | yes | opt. | VPN/ certificates | On request yes | Embedded SW needs very limited maintenance. Updates for SCADA using windows OS done by customer or service contract | BDEW, NERC/CIP conform | yes | yes | yes | max. 180 | opt. | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | Frequency regulation, active/ reactive power control, demand response | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | 2000 – 4000 | 0 – 200 | Project dependent; typically 1000 – 3000 | power&function based license scheme; 500 – 25000 | 0 – 300 | no | Maintenance free hardware with 25 years lifetime / Scada with MS OS updates | yes | yes | IREN2: Operate an existing grid as a microgrid with a high share of renewable energy sources in the form of a self-sufficient island grid, Use as topological power plant, Ensure stable and economical grid operation based on renewable energy sources Features: Intelligent monitoring and control of the microgrid, Voltage and frequency stability as well as provision of short-circuit power within the microgrid, Grid stabilization during black start, synchronization of the microgrid with the main grid, Island operation, Energy management and reliable provision of system services for the superimposed distribution network (Ancillary services) Customer environment: PV inverters, Windpark, Battery storage, various types of gensets https://new.siemens.com/global/en/company/topic-areas/iren-2.html | IREN2: Operate an existing grid as a microgrid with a high share of renewable energy sources in the form of a self-sufficient island grid, Use as topological power plant, Ensure stable and economical grid operation based on renewable energy sources Features: Intelligent monitoring and control of the microgrid, Voltage and frequency stability as well as provision of short-circuit power within the microgrid, Grid stabilization during black start, synchronization of the microgrid with the main grid, Island operation, Energy management and reliable provision of system services for the superimposed distribution network Customer environment: PV inverters, Windpark, Battery storage, various types of gensets https://new.siemens.com/global/en/company/topic-areas/iren-2.html | Nov 2019 | ||||
Siemens | www.siemens.com/microgrids | Spectrum Power MGMS | pure software-platform | both | worldwide | Control of multiple microgrids, multi-objective optimization and optimal power flow analysis | no | yes | yes | yes | no | Only O&M for automation solution | no | can be connected with standardised communication protocols | yes | installed on own server or computer | yes | yes | no | System uses standard 3rd party hardware (servers) | utilities, industrial, community, campus, military, remote locations | offgrid and grid-connected | up to 500 MW | 15 different types | yes | no | no | central control | Any grid forming equipment | yes | yes | Modbus TCP , IEC104, DNP and other protocol in energy field | RS485 Ethernet | PV, wind, diesel, gas, biogas, fuel cells, CHP, CCHP, hydro power plants | lead/lithium, redox flow BESS, Flywheels , heat storage | All loads that we can communicate with a standardized protocol | All components supporting standardized protocols | Components with analog/ digital I/O and proprietary protocols | Connection box or protocol adapter | yes | no | both | no | Yes | opt. | VPN/ certificates | Updates for OS done by customer or device contract | Fully integrated SCADA; BDEW, NERC/CIP conform | yes | yes | yes | max. 180 | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | Frequency regulation, active/ reactive power control, demand response | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | 5000 – 10000 | 200 – 400 | project specific; typically 5000 – 10000 | 50000 – 200000 | 500 – 1000 | no | yes | yes | Algonquin College: Optimize campus energy costs through the lowest cost generation mix. Achieve campus-level energy efficiency leveraging existing building automation. Enable advanced Microgrid functionality such as islanding from the grid, and ancillary programs such as demand response Features: Model-based cogeneration optimization based upon real time (hourly) electricity prices (ToU, Tariff), gas contract prices, O&M costs of major generation assets, efficiency curves of major equipment, renewable generation capacity, and controllable and uncontrollable/critical load (electricity & thermal) profile Economic dispatch of generation and chill water assets to meet the campus load, Active load management including load shedding, peak shaving, Islanding, Black start Customer environment: Cogen control system, Generation controls, PV inverters, Battery storage, Electric vehicles charging station and Siemens Apogee building automation system https://new.siemens.com/ca/en/company/topic-areas/ingenuity-for-life/algonquin.html | Blue Lake Rancheria: Demonstrate a low carbon-based microgrid solution for critical community buildings. Install a microgrid that is capable of powering a Red Cross shelter in an emergency. Integrate renewable photovoltaic and biomass power, battery storage, diesel generation and controllable demands into an islandable microgrid Features: Economic dispatch, Load management including load shed, peak shaving, Excess PV curtailment, Islanding, Resynchronization, Black start Customer environment: PV inverters, Building automation system, Back up diesel generator, Tesla battery storage system, Generator ATS, Point of Interconnection circuit breaker, Uninterruptible Power Supplies, Weather station (data loggers), Four controllable load groups http://schatzcenter.org/2017/10/blue-lake-rancheria-receives-femas-2017-whole-community-preparedness-award/ https://siemensusa.synapticdigital.com/featured-multimedia-stories/blue-lake-rancheria-native-american-reservation-microgrid-goes-live/s/64bc14d8-b74a-4951-8a5b-9e1f48a07f9b | Nov 2019 | |||||||
Siemens Energy | www.siemens-energy.com/global/en/offerings/services/digital-services/omnivise-hybrid-control.html | Omnivise Hybrid Control | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide | Based on standard plant controller with more than 3.000 installations worldwide | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | Standalone | can be connected with various other hardware components via standard communication protocols | yes – small SCADA Application Server | installed on own server or computer | no | no | Web access under security constraints possible | Islands and remote locations, mines, industrial, commercial, military, campus | All | 500kW – 100MW+ | All generation types, highly scalable | ja | limited | limited | central control | Any grid forming equipment | yes | yes | Engineering system for full customization included | Modbus TCP/RT , IEC104, DNP3.0, Profinet, OPC UA and other | RS485 Ethernet, analog and digital inputs/outputs | diesel, gas engines/turbines, PV, wind, biogas, fuel cells, CHP, CCPP, small hydro plants | lead/lithium, redox flow BESS, Flywheels, heat storage | All loads which have communication interfaces over standard protocols | All components can be made plug&play providing standard protocols | Components with analog/ digital I/O and proprietary protocols | Connection box | yes | yes | both | yes | yes | yes, via standard protocols or aggregators | VPN/ certificates | On request, Security server available | Remote updates possible with customer support or service contract | yes | yes | yes | max. 180 | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | Frequency regulation, active/ reactive power control, demand response | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | Project specific, on request | Project specific, on request | Project specific, on request | Project specific, on request | Yes, service contracts are possible | no | yes | Origin Energy Centralized monitoring, dispatch and operations management of single assets, plants and entire fleet | Galapagos Island- Isabela Our hybrid control solution successfully runs Isabela Island Hybrid Power Plant since 2018. The solution supplies almost 900 households with electricity, on Isabela, the largest Galápagos Island. It helps to eliminate the use of fossil fuels by integrating renewable resources to address the energy challenges of the island. The controller manages the hybrid power plant by integrating a 952 kWp photovoltaic system, a battery storage system with an output of up to 660 kW and a generator power plant with a total output of 1625 kW. | Juli 2021 | ||||||||
SMA Solar | www.sma.de | SMA Sunny Island MultiCluster 6/12/36 + Data Manager M powered by ennexOS | hardware & software platform | standardized | worldwide | Off-the-shelf plug&play solution | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | EPC service by SMA Sunbelt GmbH | yes | Master Sunny Island is control unit | connection and switching box for battery inverters, genset and load; Modbus meters | no | not applicable | yes | yes | yes | Monitoring app requires stable internet access, comming H1/20 | residential- and (small-)commercial off-grid customers | Off-Grid | 20 kW – 300 kW | 1 grid-forming generator and unlimited grid-parallel generators | yes | opt. | opt. | master/slave control | Sunny Central UP battery inverter, Diesel Genset is opt. | opt. | yes | 8 kW each battery inverter unit. Maximum is 288 kW. (400 VAC) | Meters via Modbus TCP or RTU, 3rd party PV inverter via Sunspec | RS485 (for meters), WiFi (for commissioning), Ethernet (plant communication) | All AC grid parallel generators (PV, wind turbine, hydro, CHP), diesel genset or CHP for grid-forming, DC charger | Lead-Acid, Redox-Flow, Lithium Ion | All AC loads, charging stations via EEBus | SMA Sunny Island 6.0/8.0H, all SMA PV-Inverters, SMA Energy Meter, Janitza Meter, Diesel Gensets with autostart via dig-in | 3rd Party Modbus TCP / RTU meters, 3rd Party PV inverters via Modbus Sunspec | Modbus register configuration via WebUI (for meter configuration) | yes | yes | wired communication | yes | no | opt. | Yes (internal end-to-end encryption, external TLS connection) | TLS connection | manual update by local WebUI / USB or automatic update by SMA update server | opt. | yes | yes | <20ms | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | not possible | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | no | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | no | no | no | opt. | opt. | On-Grid operation on request | no | no | no | no | no | no | no | yes | Our latest reference project is an alpine chalet of the Österreichischer Alpenverein (ÖAV) at a height of 2740m. The chalet is using a Sunny Island Singlecluster solution with a Tesvolt Lithium storage system and the Data Manager M powered by ennexOS: https://www.sma-sunny.com/lithium-on-the-rocks-seethalerhuette-setzt-auf-solarstrom/ https://www.sma-sunny.com/en/lithium-on-the-rocks-seethalerhuette-uses-solar-power/ | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||||
SMA Solar | www.sma.de | SMA Hybrid Controller + Sunny Central Storage (UP) Small / Medium / Large / X-Large | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide | 100% Solar Power for Diesel-Off Mode in large scale microgrid projects | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | EPC service by SMA Sunbelt GmbH | yes | Control unit is stand-alone product | Modbus meters, irradiation sensors | no | not applicable | opt. | opt. | no | commercial and large scale utility solutions | Off-Grid | unlimited | max. 16 | yes | yes | yes | central control | Sunny Central UP battery inverter, Diesel Genset | opt. | yes | Modbus TCP, CAN, CANOpen, IEC 60870-5-104, IEC 60870-5-101, IEC 60870-5-103, IEC 61850, IEEE1815 (DNP3) | Ethernet | Solar PV, Diesel Genset | Lithium Ion via Sunny Central UP | AC loads | Inverters: Sunny Tripower (STP TL-30, STP US-10, STP 60-10, STP50-40), Sunny Tripower Storage, Sunny Highpower Peak1, Sunny Tripower (STP TL-30, STP US-10, STP60-10, STP50-40), Sunny Tripower Storage, Sunny Highpower Peak1, Sunny Central CP-XT, Sunny Central, Sunny Central Storage External Power Management: SMA FSC-11-DAQ, UMG 604 JANITZA, ION PowerLogic 7650/7750/8600/8800 | – | – | yes | yes | wired communication | yes | no | no | Yes (TLS, VPN) | Separated networks | manual local installation | yes | yes | opt. | <20ms | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | only in grid connected mode | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | opt. | yes | PCR / frequency regulation, reactive power control, feed-in management, grid services | no | no | no | no | no | opt. | no | yes | Hybrid Controller and Sunny Central Storage is used for enhanced primary control reserve in Pelhalm / UK: https://www.sma.de/produkte/referenzen/pelham-storage-project-uk.html https://www.pv-magazine.de/2018/06/28/sma-liefert-systemtechnik-fuer-grossspeicher-in-england/ | Hybrid Controller and Sunny Central Storage is used for Large-Scale Island Electrification with Diesel-Off Mode in St. Eustatius and https://www.sma.de/produkte/referenzen/st-eustatius-karibik.html | Nov 2019 | |||||||||||||
SwitchDin | www.switchdin.com | SwitchDin Stormcloud / Droplet for Microgrid | hardware & software platform | both | AUS, EU, UK | Solar and battery vendor agnostic, highly secure, edge computing for autonomy and local coordination of micro-grids, cloud platform for centralised control for virtual power plants | SwitchDin's edge computing technology provides a secure, simple and reliable platform for 'device to control room' management of distributed energy resources (DERs) in microgrids and virtual power plants. SwitchDin's technology integrates with most PV inverter & battery storage products, solving inter-device communication hurdles and creating a uniform interface for smart control of stand-alone microgrids as well as embedded networks. It also enables virtual control of demand response enabled devices (DREDs) – providing more options for ‘big picture’ microgrid management. | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | yes | utilities, manufacturers, integrators, aggregators | off-grid, grid-connected – mobile also possible but not focus | unlimited | unlimited | opt. | opt. | opt. | distributed control, central control, master/slave control | Determined by others | yes | yes | SwitchDin provides a technology solution for integration and control of DER. Our customers lead system design, implementation and operation. | Modbus TCP, Sunspec, DNP3, IEEE2030.5, IEC61850 | RS485, ethernet, wireless LAN, analog inputs & outputs, RF Mesh | solar PV, diesel generators (may be expanded as required for specific projects) | any batteries (may be expanded as required for specific projects) | heat pumps, heating boilers, ev charging stations, airconditioners and other AS4755-compatible. Relay control is also an option (may be expanded as required for specific projects) | Most popular brands of solar PV and battery inverters, power meters, AS4755 DREDs, battery management systems | Any new device can be integrated under our Integration Partner Program | SwitchDin provides a once-off software integration service for new devices. | yes | yes | both | yes | SwitchDin supports a number of AMI WiSun RF-Mesh smart meter networks, and can provide integration services for various DERMS and ADMS systems | yes | Yes – certificated encryption to utility standard | The platform complies with utility grade security practices and has undergone full testing | There is a continuous over-the-air incremental update process with regular version release. | yes | yes | yes | Islanding is managed by connected devices. | yes | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | SwitchDin's technology can be deployed in conjuction with a range of equipment types and brands to deliver required functions | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | Frequency response capability in development, reactive power control possible depending on equipment deployed | yes | yes | opt. | yes | no | yes | on request | on request | on request | on request | on request | no | SwitchDin's Droplet controller is a decentralised system and does not require a central control unit. Pricing depends on number of seperate DER units. There is a hardware and software once-off cost and a recuring monthly service subscription. | no | yes | Industrial microgrid in Western Australia: https://www.switchdin.com/industrial-microgrid-case-study The goal in this project was to improve electricity supply reliability and resilience to power quality issues for industrial food processing client connected to the regional Western Australia’s regional Horizon Power network, while working within significant energy import and solar export constraints. The client also had plans to expand production, necessitating an expansion of an existing solar PV system with additional PV as well as batteries. SwitchDin’s platform made it possible for the client to integrate a range of new components (including an existing PV system with over a dozen inverters) while complying with the network’s zero solar export and 140kW import restrictions. The retrofit included three PCSs to form the local grid, 755kWh of battery storage, power metering for loads & generators, another 150kW of solar inverter capacity and a 160kW diesel generator. SwitchDin’s Droplet™ controllers provided the basis for single-portal monitoring, control and data management in this complex situation; smart control algorithms facilitated self-consumption control during normal operation, microgrid management during islanding events, and smart generator auto-start for low battery state of charge and black start scenarios SwitchDin’s technology allowed the client to increase industrial production, renewable energy generation and supply reliability while working within significant network constraints. | Stand-alone community microgrid in regional Queensland: https://www.switchdin.com/lockhart-river-case-study Located on the Cape York peninsula, the township of Lockhart River is a community of about 700 people. Power for Lockhart River town was delivered primarily by diesel powered generators over an isolated network (microgrid) managed by Energy Queensland but not connected to the larger grid. Working with energy services company Yurika, SwitchDin industrial Droplet™ controllers were installed at each of the DER sites in the township. SwitchDin worked closely with the utility, Ergon Energy to integrate the Droplets™ with Ergon’s SCADA includnig at the diesel power station, while orchestrating distributed resources to help achieve the network reliability and quality whilst improving overall efficiency. The Droplets™ received resource data from the power station, providing a simple, single consolidated control and monitoring interface for the client. Droplets™ also implement power station dispatch instructions in real time, providing instrumentation for crucial control calculations at the edge of the grid. Each site contains differing quantities and sizes of generation resources from four different equipment manufacturers: AC-coupled solar PV provided by SMA Sunny Tripower inverters (10 to 26kW), DC-coupled solar by Schneider MPPT 60 800s, plus Ecoult Batteries and Selectronic SP PRO battery inverters operating in three phase mode. Droplets™ virtualise these assets so that the utility “sees” a single virtual controllable resource at each site. | Nov 2019 | ||||||
Trina Energy Storage Solutions | www.trinasolar.com/cn | Trina Micro Grid | hardware & software platform | both | DEU, FRA, UK, SGP, AUS, JPN, America, etc. | The development and extension of micro-grid can be an effective way to realize the active adjustment of renewable energy to the main grid and make the transition from the traditional grid to the smart grid. Power supply solutions for islands or remote areas where power grid is weak or even no main grid connection. Solve the volatility, randomness and intermittent problems of renewable energy. Integrate and intelligently monitor, control and dispatch different kinds of energy in the region, such as wind power, solar power and diesel generation. Reduce costs of diesel in island or remote areas. Self-consumption, significantly reduce electricity costs. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | Integrated into the distribution cabinet | N/A | yes | both is possible | opt. | opt. | opt. | Commercial and industrial, remote areas and islands. | off-grid and grid connected micro-grid project. | Diesel generators, PV plants, wind turbines. | yes | yes | yes | central control | battery or diesel generator | yes | yes | Modbus TCP | RS485, Ethernet | Solar PV, Wind Turbines, Diesel generators | Lithium batterys(LFP or NCM) | Loads for school,hospital,etc. | N/A | N/A | N/A | yes | yes | yes | N/A | yes | The data will not be encrypted during data transfer on local arear network. Otherwise, it will be encrypted. | If the system will respond to a third party's control, we will follow its safety requirement for communication. Otherwise, the control function will not be provided. | Firmware updates will be done on project site. | yes | yes | yes | It depends on the system configuration. The best we can do is 20ms. | opt. | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | opt. | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | yes | opt. | Peak and load shifting, Frequency regulation. | opt. | opt. | yes | no | opt. | opt. | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | project specific | no | no | no | Please refer to the attachment | Please refer to the attachment | Nov 2019 | ||||||||||
Vensys Elektrotechnik | www.vensys-elektrotechnik.de | HYCON Hybrid Converter | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide | Compact integration of WIND-PV-STORAGE-GenSet| robust design | VENSYS converter experience: thousandfold well-proven | One unit includes all: converter and energy management | yes | yes | yes | no | no | Service and Maintenance available | yes | One unit includes all: converter and energy management | On demand | yes | both is possible | yes | yes | yes | www.vensyselektrotechnik.de/en/hycon | All customers demanding more than 100kW | Flexible: offgrid, grid-connected or mobile microgrids | 150kW|300kW+ Modules – scalable | 4 Sources/unit – WIND-PV-STORAGE-GenSet | opt. | yes | opt. | Flexible due to application | Nor need of extra grid forming units | yes | yes | www.vensyselektrotechnik.de/en/hycon | Modbus and others | Flexible due to application | All: Flexible due to application | All: Flexible due to application | All: Flexible due to application | Basically all after set-up of customizing | Basically all for set-up of (first) customizing | Wires + Software Set-Up | opt. | opt. | both | yes | Flexible due to application | opt. | opt. | Outdoor-Housing: vandalism resistant | wired or wireless | www.vensyselektrotechnik.de/en/hycon | yes | yes | yes | Depending on integrated components and parameters Depending on integrated components and parameters | no | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | opt. | on request | on request | on request | on request | on request | on request | HYCON allows multiple configurations | no | yes | Customers and Authors are invited to visit our factory to see our range of solutions after more than 10-years on grid power management. | Reference application of off-grid solution on demand. | Nov 2019 | ||
Wendeware | wendeware.com, myPowerGrid.de | Amperix EMS, myPowerGrid Plattform | hardware & software platform | both | worldwide (excl. USA) | flexible, independent of device manufacturers, strong algorithms | software developped by Fraunhofer ITWM | no | yes | yes | no | no | yes | standalone | also offering meters, sensors, switches | yes | cloud solution | no | no | yes | Amperix EMS hardware in every building plus one centrally | residential, commercial, industrial, community | grid-connected | unlimited | > 100 | depends on connected energy devices | depends on connected energy devices | depends on connected energy devices | autonomous EMS per building, one main EMS, visualisation and user inputs via web based plattform | grid forming by connected battery inverter or generator | yes | yes | control system connects to 3rd party devices | Modbus TCP/RTU, Sunspec | RS485, Ethernet, 1-Wire, digital in/out, analog in/out | anything with an electronic interface | anything with an electronic interface | anything with an electronic interface | on request, list is expanding | on request, list is expanding | integration by Wendeware AG | no | no | wired communication | opt. | reading utility meters via optical interface, SMG interface under development | no | yes, vpn tunnel | yes, vpn tunnel | online updates | growing list of compatible devices, new interfaces can be developped quickly, GUI based configuration being developped | yes | yes | yes | depends on connected energy devices | depends on connected energy devices | in grid connected and islanding mode | in grid connected and islanding mode | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | yes | UPS function, islanding and frequency control by system devices | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | 200 to 300, plus 200 to 300 per connected building | 0 | project specific | software configuration costs 1000 to 10000 Euro depending on system size and complexity | 10 – 100, project specific | yes | yes | Schoonship in Amsterdam | Nov 2019 |