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Central Hudson's Innovative Approach to Distributed Energy Resource Management
Technology Category
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) - Cloud Middleware & Microservices
- Sensors - Utility Meters
Applicable Industries
- Electrical Grids
- Renewable Energy
Applicable Functions
- Logistics & Transportation
- Product Research & Development
Use Cases
- Cybersecurity
- Microgrid
Services
- System Integration
- Testing & Certification
The Challenge
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation, a utility company servicing a 2,600 square-mile area in New York, was facing the challenge of transitioning away from a traditional distribution model to accommodate the growing push for renewable energy. The company had a long-term vision that aligned with the state’s commitment to sustainability, but the transition was not as simple as flipping a switch. The utility company needed to ensure quality and reliability as demand evolved. The introduction of their distributed generation program, part of New York State’s energy plan, brought new possibilities and incentives to customers but also introduced a few challenges. The utility company needed to ensure they had the right level of visibility and control over their grid, especially with the introduction of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), small-sized power generation units that attach to the grid and enable the utility to introduce renewable energy sources, such as solar power.
The Customer
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation
About The Customer
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation is a utility company that services a 2,600 square-mile area between the northern New York City suburbs and the state capital of Albany. The company has a long-term vision that aligns with the state’s commitment to sustainability and is transitioning away from a traditional distribution model to accommodate the growing push for renewable energy. The company services nearly 400,000 electric and natural gas customers and has introduced a distributed generation program as part of New York State’s energy plan to foster an innovative, clean energy economy. The program has brought new possibilities and incentives to customers but also introduced a few challenges.
The Solution
Central Hudson found their solution in a wireless communication processing tool they had begun to implement with longtime partner Sensus, a Xylem brand. The utility company deployed the Sensus Remote Telemetry Module™ (RTM II) initially to monitor grid conditions and protect against outages. The Distribution Automation (DA) system uses Intelligent Electronic Devices placed strategically across their network to help them monitor and control distribution assets. The utility company expanded the DA solution to include monitoring and control of DERs. As solar farms grew in their rural northeast territory, Central Hudson recognized the potential for excessive grid backflow and overvoltage that could cause system damage. The utility company's engineering team came up with a design for a direct transfer trip, or (DTT) system that would communicate from the interoperable RTM II with circuit breakers and reclosers. The system can automatically isolate a DER when a condition exists that can lead to excessive reverse power flow or overvoltage is detected and help ensure grid stability.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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