DVI Tools Facilitate Rural Electrics’ Smart Grid Goals
Randy Sukow
|
Rural electric cooperatives are looking for the right combination of technologies to optimize the grid. NRTC has reached a technology agreement with Dominion Voltage Inc. (DVI) to add its software solutions to members’ list of options. The Richmond, VA-based subsidiary of electric utility Dominion Energy specializes in precision-based voltage reduction for demand response, among other voltage optimization solutions.
“DVI systems contribute to energy efficiency through conservation voltage reduction (CVR), Volt/VAR optimization and line loss reduction, and they increase circuit renewable hosting capacity,” said Nathan Holland, NRTC’s director, Grid Intelligence. “Co-ops can keep their rates low while maintaining a high level of reliability, enhanced visibility and power quality for their members.”
DVI’s EDGE system uses data from advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) networks, SCADA and other sensory networks to implement voltage management in the most cost-effective manner. It adds measurement-based intelligence and volt/VAR control to enhance existing systems and yield substantial savings. Other potential benefits NRTC members could realize through the EDGE suite:
- Circuit-by-circuit analysis to calculate future energy savings;
- Autonomous control adapting to dynamic system changes and limiting the need for utility staff to intervene, and
- Post-event measurement and verification providing valuable data reports, such as energy savings and demand reduction.
NRTC turns to the voltage management system from DVI as it maps out the best long-term, comprehensive smart grid solutions for its members. DVI’s EDGE software provides immediate energy savings while assisting utilities with managing broader voltage performance requirements for years into the future.
