Utility Operations Center & Microgrid
A grid control center that runs on its own microgrid, so the operators never lose power while they keep the lights on for everyone else.
- Owner
- Confidential
- Location
- U.S.
- Market
- Power & Utilities
- Delivery
- EPC
- Scale
- 6 MW
- Completed
- 2022
A grid control center powered by its own microgrid of solar, batteries and backup generation, so the people running the grid never lose power.
The people running a utility grid cannot lose power themselves. The new operations center needed a control room with a video wall, dispatch consoles and redundant networks, backed by a 6 MW microgrid of rooftop and carport solar, battery storage and standby generators. The microgrid had to island from the utility in an instant and run the building alone, then reconnect without a flicker.
The approach.
- 01
One controller, many sources
Solar, batteries, generators and the utility feed were tied together through a microgrid controller, programmed and tested in the factory before shipping.
- 02
Islanding proven on site
The building was cut off from the utility on purpose during commissioning, and the microgrid carried the full load while the control room stayed live.
- 03
Control room built like a data hall
Consoles, the video wall, structured cabling and two diverse network paths were installed and commissioned by our own systems team.
- 04
Operators trained on the real thing
Utility staff ran switching drills on the finished microgrid before move-in, using the same screens they use today.
The outcome.
“We pulled the utility feed with the operators at their desks. The screens never blinked, and that was the handover.”
Commissioning manager, Tum Harry
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