Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS)
Detailed overview of innovation with sample startups and prominent university research
What it is
Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS) are software platforms designed to manage and optimize the operation of distributed energy resources (DERs) within the electricity grid. DERs include resources like rooftop solar panels, energy storage systems, electric vehicles, and demand response programs. DERMS play a crucial role in integrating these diverse resources into the grid, ensuring stability, reliability, and efficient energy utilization.
Impact on climate action
Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS) under Smart Grids revolutionize climate action by optimizing the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid. By managing diverse energy resources like solar and wind efficiently, DERMS enhances grid stability, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and accelerates the transition to a low-carbon energy system.
Underlying
Technology
- Data Acquisition and Integration: DERMS collect data from DERs, smart meters, weather forecasts, and other sources to provide a comprehensive view of the grid and energy resources.
- Forecasting and Optimization: AI and machine learning algorithms are used to forecast energy demand, generation from DERs, and grid conditions. This enables DERMS to optimize the dispatch of DERs and ensure grid stability.
- Control and Communication: DERMS communicate with DERs to control their operation, such as adjusting the output of solar inverters or charging/discharging energy storage systems.
- Market Participation: DERMS can facilitate the participation of DERs in energy markets, allowing them to provide grid services and generate revenue.
- Cybersecurity: DERMS require robust cybersecurity measures to protect against cyberattacks and ensure the security and reliability of the grid.
TRL : 7-8
Prominent Innovation themes
- AI-Powered DER Optimization: Advanced AI algorithms and machine learning techniques are being developed to optimize the operation of DERs within the grid, improving efficiency and reliability.
- Blockchain for DER Coordination: Blockchain technology is being explored for applications in DER coordination, enabling secure and transparent communication and transactions between DERs and the DERMS operator.
- Edge Computing for DER Management: Edge computing brings computing power and data analysis closer to the source of data collection, enabling faster and more efficient DER management.
- Interoperability Standards: Standardized communication protocols and data formats are being developed to ensure interoperability between different DERMS and DERs.
Other Innovation Subthemes
- Grid Resilience Enhancement
- Renewable Energy Integration
- Microgrid Optimization
- Demand Response Management
- Voltage Control Strategies
- Energy Market Participation
- Cybersecurity Measures
- Data Analytics for Grid Optimization
- Real-time Grid Monitoring
- Decentralized Energy Management
- Scalable DER Deployment
- Flexibility Management
- Energy Storage Optimization
- Distributed Generation Control
- Load Balancing Techniques
- Interoperable DER Solutions
- Predictive Maintenance for DERs
- Advanced Control Algorithms
- Grid Stability Assurance
Related Innovations
- Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) for Smart Grid
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for Smart Grid
- Blockchain for Grid Management
- Consumer Engagement and Empowerment for Smart Grid
- Cybersecurity for Smart Grids
- Data Analytics and Visualization for Smart Grids
- Demand Response for Smart Grid
- Edge Computing for Smart Grids
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Integration for Smart Grid
- Grid Automation and Control
- Grid Modernization and Infrastructure Upgrades for Smart Grid
- Grid Resilience and Security
- Internet of Things (IoT) for Smart Grid
- Microgrids for Smart Grid
- Renewable Energy Integration for Smart Grid
- Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) for Smart Grid
Sample Global Startups and Companies
- AutoGrid:
- Technology Enhancement: AutoGrid develops advanced software solutions for managing distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar panels, energy storage systems, electric vehicles, and demand response assets. Their DERMS platform utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to optimize DER operations, balance supply and demand, and maximize grid reliability and efficiency.
- Uniqueness of the Startup: AutoGrid stands out for its expertise in DER optimization and its scalable software platform that enables utilities, grid operators, and energy service providers to effectively manage and monetize distributed energy assets. Their platform offers real-time insights, predictive analytics, and control capabilities to unlock the full potential of DERs and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
- End-User Segments Addressing: AutoGrid serves utility companies, energy retailers, and grid operators seeking to integrate and manage DERs at scale. Their DERMS solutions are deployed in utility-scale microgrids, virtual power plants, and demand response programs, empowering stakeholders to enhance grid flexibility, reliability, and sustainability.
- Enbala Power Networks:
- Technology Enhancement: Enbala Power Networks specializes in virtual power plant (VPP) and demand response solutions for optimizing distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar, wind, and energy storage systems. Their DERMS platform leverages real-time data analytics and control algorithms to orchestrate DERs for grid balancing, frequency regulation, and grid stability enhancement.
- Uniqueness of the Startup: Enbala Power Networks stands out for its focus on dynamic and adaptive DER management solutions that enable grid operators to harness the full potential of distributed energy resources. Their platform provides grid operators with the flexibility and agility to respond to changing grid conditions and optimize DER utilization in real-time, contributing to grid reliability and resilience.
- End-User Segments Addressing: Enbala Power Networks serves utility companies, independent system operators (ISOs), and energy aggregators seeking to optimize grid operations and integrate renewable energy resources. Their DERMS solutions are deployed in utility-scale grids, microgrids, and ancillary service markets, enabling grid operators to improve system stability and efficiency.
- Siemens MindSphere:
- Technology Enhancement: Siemens MindSphere is a cloud-based industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platform that enables the integration, analysis, and optimization of distributed energy resources (DERs) and other industrial assets. Its DERMS capabilities allow utilities, energy service providers, and industrial customers to monitor, control, and optimize DERs in real-time for grid stability, energy efficiency, and cost savings.
- Uniqueness of the Startup: Siemens MindSphere stands out for its comprehensive IIoT platform and its integration with Siemens’ extensive portfolio of energy management and automation solutions. Its DERMS functionality extends beyond traditional grid management to include industrial applications, enabling seamless integration of DERs into industrial processes and energy systems.
- End-User Segments Addressing: Siemens MindSphere serves a wide range of industries, including utilities, manufacturing, transportation, and infrastructure. Its DERMS solutions are deployed in diverse applications, from smart buildings and campuses to industrial facilities and utility-scale energy systems, helping customers optimize energy use, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability.
Sample Research At Top-Tier Universities
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT):
- Research Focus: MIT is a frontrunner in research on Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS), focusing on developing advanced control algorithms, optimization frameworks, and communication protocols for effectively managing distributed energy resources (DERs) within smart grid networks.
- Uniqueness: Their research encompasses the development of decentralized control strategies, real-time monitoring systems, and predictive analytics tools to enable dynamic coordination and optimization of DERs, including solar PV systems, battery storage units, electric vehicles, and demand response assets. They also explore the integration of DERMS with grid-edge devices, microgrids, and energy market platforms to enhance grid stability, reliability, and resilience.
- End-use Applications: The outcomes of their work have applications in utility-scale power systems, campus microgrids, and community energy networks. By enabling efficient management and integration of diverse DERs, MIT’s research supports grid modernization efforts, enhances renewable energy integration, and facilitates the transition to a more flexible and sustainable electricity infrastructure.
- Stanford University:
- Research Focus: Stanford University conducts innovative research on Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS), leveraging its expertise in optimization theory, machine learning, and power systems engineering to develop scalable and adaptive solutions for orchestrating distributed energy assets in smart grid environments.
- Uniqueness: Their research involves the development of AI-driven DERMS platforms, distributed control architectures, and blockchain-based coordination mechanisms for enabling peer-to-peer energy trading, grid services provision, and grid-edge autonomy. They also explore the integration of DERMS with grid-scale energy storage, grid-interactive buildings, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure to maximize economic value and grid flexibility.
- End-use Applications: The outcomes of their work find applications in residential neighborhoods, commercial campuses, and industrial facilities. By empowering end-users to actively participate in energy management decisions and grid operations, Stanford’s research promotes energy democratization, fosters grid resilience, and accelerates the transition to a decentralized and decarbonized energy system.
- University of California, Berkeley:
- Research Focus: UC Berkeley is engaged in cutting-edge research on Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS), leveraging its expertise in cyber-physical systems, data analytics, and policy analysis to develop innovative solutions for optimizing DER deployment and operation in smart grid ecosystems.
- Uniqueness: Their research encompasses the development of scalable DERMS architectures, interoperable standards, and distributed coordination mechanisms for integrating DERs into grid planning, operation, and market mechanisms. They also explore the socio-economic implications of DER deployment, including equity, affordability, and environmental justice considerations.
- End-use Applications: The outcomes of their work have applications in urban communities, rural electrification projects, and industrial parks. By promoting efficient utilization of DERs, enhancing grid flexibility, and mitigating grid congestion, UC Berkeley’s research contributes to building more resilient, equitable, and sustainable energy systems that meet the evolving needs of diverse stakeholders.
Commercial Implementation
DERMS are being implemented by utilities and energy providers around the world to manage the growing number of DERs on the grid. For example, in California, utilities are using DERMS to manage rooftop solar, energy storage, and electric vehicle charging, ensuring grid stability and reliability.
