Introduction

The global energy transition is rapidly accelerating, driven by the proliferation of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) such as rooftop solar, battery storage, electric vehicles, and intelligent thermostats. While these assets offer immense potential for decarbonization and increased grid resilience, their distributed nature and variable output present significant operational complexities for utilities. Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS) are emerging as the essential software platforms that enable utilities to monitor, manage, and optimize these diverse and geographically dispersed DERs, both individually and in aggregate. By providing real-time visibility, advanced forecasting, and automated control capabilities, DERMS allow grid operators to seamlessly integrate DERs, balance supply and demand, and leverage these assets for grid services, turning potential challenges into opportunities for a more flexible and sustainable power system. Without robust Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS), the full value of DERs cannot be unlocked, and grid stability could be jeopardized in an increasingly decentralized energy landscape. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS).

This intensive 10-day training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, utility planners, grid operators, renewable energy developers, smart city planners, and IT professionals in the energy sector with the theoretical understanding and hands-on practical tools necessary to design, implement, and operate DERMS solutions. Participants will gain a deep understanding of DER types and their characteristics, explore DERMS architecture and functionalities, learn about advanced forecasting and optimization techniques, and acquire skills in managing grid constraints, facilitating market participation, and ensuring cybersecurity for DER-rich environments. The course will delve into topics such as Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), smart inverter functionalities, communication protocols for DERs, demand flexibility, blockchain applications in DER management, and the integration of DERMS with existing utility systems like ADMS and SCADA. By mastering the principles and practical application of Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS), participants will be prepared to lead the charge in modernizing electricity grids, maximizing the benefits of distributed clean energy, and enhancing overall grid reliability and efficiency.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Electrical Engineers (Distribution & Transmission)
• Utility Operations and Planning Personnel
• Renewable Energy Project Developers
• Grid System Operators and Dispatchers
• Smart Grid Architects
• IT/OT Integration Specialists
• Energy Regulators and Policy Makers
• Energy Storage Developers
• EV Charging Infrastructure Managers
• Consultants in the Energy Sector

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and their role in the modern grid.
• Learn about the architecture and core functionalities of Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS).
• Acquire skills in forecasting DER generation and consumption patterns.
• Comprehend techniques for optimizing DER dispatch for grid services and economic benefits.
• Explore strategies for integrating DERMS with existing utility operational technologies.
• Understand the importance of communication protocols and interoperability for DERs.
• Gain insights into managing grid constraints (voltage, congestion) using DERMS.
• Develop a practical understanding of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) and DER aggregation.
• Learn about cybersecurity considerations for DERMS and connected devices.
• Master demand flexibility and demand response program management via DERMS.
• Acquire skills in assessing the economic and regulatory landscape for DERMS.
• Understand the role of AI and machine learning in advanced DERMS functionalities.
• Explore advanced control strategies enabled by DERMS.
• Develop proficiency in evaluating and selecting DERMS solutions.
• Prepare to plan, implement, and operate DERMS effectively in a utility context.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)

• Definition and classification of DERs: solar PV, wind, battery storage, EVs, demand response.
• Drivers for DER proliferation: decarbonization, cost reduction, consumer empowerment.
• Benefits of DERs: grid resilience, emissions reduction, reduced T&D losses.
• Challenges posed by DERs: variability, intermittency, bidirectional power flow, visibility.
• The changing role of distribution systems and the need for active management.

Module 2: Fundamentals of Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS)

• What is DERMS? Its purpose and key capabilities.
• How DERMS differs from ADMS, SCADA, and EMS.
• The role of DERMS in enabling a flexible and intelligent grid.
• Key functions of DERMS: monitoring, forecasting, optimization, control.
• Overview of the DERMS market and major vendors.

Module 3: DERMS Architecture and Components

• Layered architecture of a DERMS platform.
• Software components: data ingestion, analytics engine, optimization algorithms, user interface.
• Hardware components: smart meters, smart inverters, local controllers, communication gateways.
• Communication infrastructure and network requirements for DERMS.
• Data management and storage considerations.

Module 4: DER Forecasting and Prediction

• Importance of accurate forecasting for DER management.
• Techniques for solar and wind power generation forecasting.
• Load forecasting with high DER penetration.
• Predictive analytics for demand response and energy storage availability.
• Incorporating weather data and real-time grid conditions into forecasts.

Module 5: DER Optimization and Control

• Objectives of DER optimization: cost minimization, grid reliability, emissions reduction.
• Optimization algorithms for dispatching DERs.
• Real-time control strategies for voltage, frequency, and congestion management.
• Local vs. centralized control of DERs.
• Smart inverter functionalities and their role in grid support.

Module 6: Grid Integration and Operational Scenarios

• Interconnecting DERs with the distribution grid.
• Managing reverse power flow and overvoltage issues.
• Hosting capacity analysis in DER-rich feeders.
• Fault detection, isolation, and restoration (FDIR) in smart grids with DERs.
• Simulating and analyzing DERMS operation in various grid scenarios.

Module 7: Communication Protocols and Interoperability

• Key communication standards for DERs and DERMS: IEEE 2030.5, IEC 61850, DNP3, Modbus.
• Message models and data exchange formats.
• Ensuring secure and reliable communication pathways.
• Challenges in interoperability and vendor-specific solutions.
• Cybersecurity implications of communication networks.

Module 8: Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) and Aggregation

• Concept of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs): aggregating diverse DERs into a single dispatchable unit.
• Benefits of VPPs: market participation, ancillary services, grid support.
• Business models for VPP operators and DER owners.
• Role of DERMS in enabling VPP functionality.
• Case studies of successful VPP deployments.

Module 9: Demand Flexibility and Demand Response Management

• Understanding demand-side flexibility from residential, commercial, and industrial loads.
• Designing and implementing demand response programs via DERMS.
• Automated demand response (ADR) technologies.
• Behavioral aspects of consumer participation in DR programs.
• Maximizing grid benefits through intelligent load shifting and shedding.

Module 10: Energy Storage Management through DERMS

• Role of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in DERMS.
• Optimizing BESS charging and discharging for grid services and economic benefits.
• Managing BESS for renewable energy firming and peak shaving.
• Integrating behind-the-meter storage with utility-scale DERMS.
• Long-duration storage technologies and future DERMS integration.

Module 11: Electric Vehicles (EVs) and V2G in DERMS

• Impact of EV charging on the distribution grid.
• Smart charging management for EVs via DERMS.
• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology: EVs as mobile energy storage.
• Control strategies for V2G to provide grid services.
• Future of EV fleet management within DERMS.

Module 12: Cybersecurity for DERMS and the Grid Edge

• Identifying cyber threats to DERs, smart meters, and DERMS platforms.
• Security by design principles for DERMS implementation.
• Authentication, authorization, and encryption for DER communications.
• Intrusion detection and response for DER-rich environments.
• Regulatory compliance for cybersecurity in critical energy infrastructure.

Module 13: Regulatory and Market Frameworks

• Key policies and regulations driving DERMS adoption (e.g., FERC Order 2222).
• Market mechanisms for DER participation in wholesale and retail markets.
• Incentives and compensation models for DER owners providing grid services.
• Overcoming regulatory barriers to DERMS deployment.
• Evolving grid codes and their impact on DERMS requirements.

Module 14: DERMS Integration with Enterprise Systems

• Integrating DERMS with ADMS (Advanced Distribution Management Systems).
• Data exchange with SCADA, GIS, OMS, and customer information systems.
• Ensuring seamless workflow and data consistency across utility departments.
• Challenges and best practices for system interoperability.
• Cloud-based DERMS solutions and their integration capabilities.

Module 15: Advanced DERMS Applications and Future Trends

• AI and Machine Learning for predictive control, anomaly detection, and self-healing.
• Blockchain applications for decentralized energy trading and peer-to-peer energy.
• Autonomous DER control and edge computing.
• The role of DERMS in smart city energy management.
• Research and development in next-generation DERMS capabilities.

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.