The modern power grid is evolving from a centralized system to a decentralized network, with millions of homeowners and businesses generating their own power from solar panels, storing it in batteries, and managing their energy use with smart devices. To harness the collective power of these distributed energy resources (DERs), aggregation is essential. By pooling these small assets together, they can function as a single, large-scale resource, providing critical grid services like demand response, frequency regulation, and voltage support. This new model of energy management is key to unlocking a more flexible, resilient, and sustainable power system.

This program provides a comprehensive and practical deep dive into the principles and techniques for aggregating distributed energy resources. Participants will gain a fundamental understanding of how to design a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), navigate complex energy markets, and develop new business models that monetize DERs. The course covers everything from the technical challenges of real-time control and communication to the regulatory and market frameworks that enable aggregation. By focusing on real-world case studies and hands-on exercises, attendees will be equipped to tackle the complexities of this evolving field and lead the charge in creating the grid of the future.

Duration: 10 days

Target Audience:

• Utility and Grid Operators
• Renewable Energy Project Developers
• Energy Market Analysts
• Energy Service Companies (ESCOs)
• Data Scientists and AI Specialists
• Smart Grid Planners
• Technology and Innovation Leaders
• Policymakers and Regulators
• Financial Analysts and Investors
• Students in Energy and Engineering

Objectives:

• Master the core principles of Distributed Energy Resource (DER) aggregation.
• Learn about the key components of a Virtual Power Plant (VPP).
• Understand the various grid services that can be provided by aggregated DERs.
• Grasp the complexities of market participation and revenue streams.
• Develop proficiency in using data and analytics for VPP optimization.
• Explore best practices for integrating different DER technologies.
• Learn about robust approaches to cybersecurity for VPPs.
• Identify the critical legal and regulatory frameworks.
• Develop skills in building a business case for DER aggregation.
• Formulate strategies for scaling an aggregation business.

Course Modules:

Module 1: The DER Revolution

• The rise of distributed energy resources
• The impact on the traditional power grid
• The need for aggregation and coordination
• The concept of a Virtual Power Plant (VPP)
• The role of a VPP in the energy transition

Module 2: Key DER Technologies

• An overview of solar PV and battery storage
• The role of electric vehicles and smart charging
• Demand response and energy efficiency
• The importance of a clear and focused research question
• Integration with other clean technologies

Module 3: The Virtual Power Plant (VPP)

• The architecture of a VPP
• The core components: DERs, a central management system, and communication
• The role of a "risk and mitigation" plan
• The difference between a VPP and a microgrid
• Real-time control and dispatch

Module 4: Grid Services from DERs

• The concept of ancillary services
• Frequency regulation and voltage support
• The importance of a simple scorecard and a dashboard
• Capacity and peak demand management
• The role of a VPP in black start services

Module 5: The Aggregation Platform

• The software and hardware for aggregation
• The role of a "data story map"
• Communication protocols and standards (e.g., OpenADR)
• The use of a simple scorecard and a dashboard
• Data management and security

Module 6: Business Models and Markets

• The revenue streams for a VPP
• The importance of a clear and consistent reporting style
• Participation in wholesale energy markets
• The role of a clear and compelling KPI
• The business case for DER aggregation

Module 7: Data Analytics and AI

• Using data to forecast DER availability and demand
• The role of a "stakeholder analysis"
• The use of machine learning for optimization
• The importance of a clear and focused research question
• Predictive maintenance for DERs

Module 8: Interoperability and Standards

• The importance of a common communication standard
• The role of a "data story map"
• Interoperability challenges between different vendors
• The role of a "program's theory of change"
• The future of open-source protocols

Module 9: Policy and Regulatory Frameworks

• The role of government policy in enabling aggregation
• The importance of a "risk and mitigation" plan
• Regulatory frameworks for VPP participation
• The importance of a clear and compelling KPI
• The evolution of market rules

Module 10: Cybersecurity for VPPs

• The unique security vulnerabilities of VPPs
• Securing the communication network
• The role of a "stakeholder analysis"
• Protecting the central management system
• Best practices for a secure VPP ecosystem

Module 11: Case Studies

• Case study: A successful VPP in a residential community
• Case study: An industrial VPP for demand response
• Case study: A VPP for grid stability
• Lessons learned from global projects
• The future of VPPs

Module 12: Project Management

• The lifecycle of a DER aggregation project
• Managing a team and a budget
• The importance of a clear and consistent reporting style
• The role of a "risk and mitigation" plan
• The use of a simple scorecard and a dashboard

Module 13: Financial Modeling

• The financial components of a DER aggregation project
• The importance of a "data story map"
• The role of a program's theory of change
• Return on Investment (ROI) and payback period
• The financial viability of different business models

Module 14: Customer Acquisition and Engagement

• The importance of a "stakeholder analysis"
• The role of a clear and compelling KPI
• The business case for homeowners and businesses
• Customer onboarding and management
• The importance of a clear and focused research question

Module 15: The Future of Aggregation

• The role of blockchain and DLT
• The impact of EVs on VPPs
• The future of peer-to-peer energy trading
• The evolution of energy markets
• The role of aggregation in a decarbonized grid

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.