The rapid proliferation of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), including solar PV, wind turbines, battery storage, and electric vehicles, is fundamentally reshaping power grids worldwide. While DERs offer immense benefits for sustainability and energy independence, their effective integration requires a robust framework of technical requirements to ensure grid stability, reliability, and safety. IEEE Standards for Interconnecting DERs provide this critical foundation, establishing uniform technical criteria for the performance, operation, testing, and safety of DERs connected to the electric power system. These standards are crucial for preventing adverse grid impacts, facilitating seamless bidirectional power flow, and enabling DERs to provide essential grid services. Without a comprehensive understanding and adherence to IEEE Standards for Interconnecting DERs, utilities, developers, and regulators face significant challenges in managing the complexities of a decentralized grid, leading to potential operational inefficiencies, increased costs, and compromised system integrity. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master IEEE Standards for Interconnecting DERs.

This training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, utility planners, DER developers, regulatory professionals, equipment manufacturers, and system integrators with the theoretical understanding and practical knowledge necessary to navigate and apply IEEE Standards for Interconnecting DERs. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the foundational IEEE 1547 series, exploring its evolution and the critical requirements for voltage and frequency regulation, fault ride-through, and anti-islanding. The course will delve into related standards such as the IEEE 2030 series for smart grid interoperability and communication protocols like IEEE 2030.5, crucial for advanced DER functionality. Topics will include conformance testing, impact studies, cybersecurity considerations for DER interconnections, the role of inverter-based resources (IBRs), and the harmonization of IEEE standards with local grid codes and regulatory frameworks. By mastering the principles and practical application of IEEE Standards for Interconnecting DERs, participants will be prepared to design, approve, and implement DER projects that contribute to a resilient, efficient, and sustainable modern grid.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Electrical Engineers (Utility, Consulting, Project Development)
• Grid Interconnection Engineers
• Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Developers
• Utility System Planners and Operators
• Regulatory Affairs Professionals
• Equipment Manufacturers (Inverters, DER Devices)
• Smart Grid Architects
• Testing and Certification Engineers
• Project Managers for DER Installations
• Researchers in Grid Integration

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental importance and purpose of IEEE standards for DER interconnection.
• Learn about the evolution and key revisions of IEEE Std 1547.
• Acquire skills in interpreting and applying the technical requirements of IEEE Std 1547-2018.
• Comprehend techniques for assessing DER performance in response to abnormal grid conditions.
• Explore strategies for ensuring power quality as per IEEE interconnection standards.
• Understand the importance of anti-islanding requirements and methods.
• Gain insights into reactive power capability and voltage regulation functions of DERs.
• Develop a practical understanding of fault ride-through (FRT) requirements for DERs.
• Learn about conformance testing and commissioning procedures for IEEE 1547 compliance.
• Master the communication and interoperability aspects covered by IEEE 1547 and 2030 series.
• Acquire skills in conducting interconnection impact studies for DER projects.
• Understand the cybersecurity implications related to DER interconnection standards.
• Explore the harmonization of IEEE standards with local grid codes and regulations.
• Develop proficiency in addressing complex interconnection challenges with multi-DER projects.
• Prepare to design, evaluate, and approve DER interconnection compliant with IEEE standards.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to DER and Interconnection Standards

• Overview of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs): types, benefits, and challenges.
• The necessity of interconnection standards for grid safety and reliability.
• Role of IEEE in developing power system standards.
• Overview of key IEEE standards for DER interconnection: IEEE 1547, IEEE 2030 series.
• Historical context and evolution of interconnection requirements.

Module 2: IEEE Std 1547-2003: The Foundational Standard

• Original scope and objectives of IEEE Std 1547-2003.
• Basic interconnection requirements: voltage, frequency, synchronization.
• Key performance criteria: response to abnormal conditions.
• Power quality limits and anti-islanding requirements.
• Limitations of the 2003 standard for high DER penetration.

Module 3: Evolution to IEEE Std 1547-2018: Key Changes and Rationale

• Drivers for the 2018 revision: increased DER penetration, advanced inverter capabilities.
• Major updates: expanded performance capabilities, dynamic grid support functions.
• Performance categories for voltage and frequency ride-through.
• Flexible interconnection requirements based on area EPS needs.
• General applicability and technology-neutral approach of 1547-2018.

Module 4: General Interconnection Requirements (IEEE 1547-2018)

• General requirements for DER interconnection equipment and systems.
• Operational states: active, standby, abnormal.
• Performance requirements for active power, reactive power, and voltage.
• Monitoring, information exchange, and control capabilities.
• Safety considerations for personnel and equipment.

Module 5: Response to Abnormal Conditions (IEEE 1547-2018)

• Voltage and frequency abnormal operating performance requirements.
• Trip settings, clearing times, and ride-through capabilities (LVRT, HVRT, UF/OF).
• Intentional and unintentional islanding prevention.
• Reconnection requirements after grid disturbances.
• Impact of various DER technologies on abnormal condition response.

Module 6: Reactive Power Capability and Voltage Regulation

• Mandatory and optional reactive power capabilities of DER.
• Fixed power factor mode, voltage-reactive power (Volt-VAR) mode.
• Active power-reactive power (Watt-VAR) mode.
• Voltage regulation strategies and settings for smart inverters.
• Coordinated voltage control with utility equipment.

Module 7: Power Quality and Grounding Requirements

• Harmonics limits and mitigation strategies for DERs.
• Flicker and voltage fluctuation limits.
• DC injection limits.
• Grounding requirements for DER interconnection.
• Impact of DERs on power quality and system protection.

Module 8: Interoperability and Information Exchange (IEEE 1547-2018)

• Requirements for communication interfaces at the DER.
• Standardized information models for DER data exchange.
• Communication protocols allowed (e.g., IEEE 2030.5).
• Data points for monitoring, control, and status.
• Ensuring seamless data flow between DERs and grid operators.

Module 9: Interconnection and Conformance Testing (IEEE 1547.1)

• Overview of IEEE Std 1547.1: Standard for conformance testing.
• Test procedures for verifying IEEE 1547 compliance.
• Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
• Periodic testing and maintenance requirements.
• Role of certified test labs and certification programs.

Module 10: Interconnection Impact Studies

• Purpose and scope of interconnection impact studies for DER.
• Methodologies for conducting studies: steady-state, short-circuit, stability.
• Identifying potential grid impacts: voltage rise, overcurrents, protection coordination.
• Mitigation measures for identified impacts.
• Case studies and practical examples of impact studies.

Module 11: Cybersecurity for DER Interconnection

• Identifying cybersecurity vulnerabilities in DER communication and control.
• Relevant cybersecurity standards and best practices (e.g., IEC 62351, NERC CIP).
• Secure communication protocols and data encryption.
• Authentication and authorization for DER control.
• Protecting DERs from cyber threats and attacks.

Module 12: IEEE 2030 Series: Smart Grid Interoperability

• Overview of the IEEE 2030 series for Smart Grid interoperability.
• IEEE 2030.5 (Smart Energy Profile 2.0) for DER communication and control.
• Role of IEEE 2030.11 for Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS).
• Information models (e.g., IEC CIM) and their relevance.
• Bridging the gap between DERs and utility control systems.

Module 13: Advanced DER Functions and Grid Services

• DER participation in ancillary services (frequency regulation, voltage support).
• Role of DERs in demand response programs.
• DER as virtual power plants (VPPs).
• Intentional islanding and microgrid applications.
• Future capabilities and evolving roles of DERs.

Module 14: Regulatory and Policy Aspects of DER Interconnection

• Overview of regulatory frameworks for DER interconnection.
• State and local interconnection rules based on IEEE 1547.
• Permitting processes and interconnection agreements.
• Economic implications of interconnection standards.
• Incentives and challenges for DER adoption.

Module 15: Practical Applications and Case Studies

• Practical exercises on applying IEEE 1547 requirements to real-world scenarios.
• Analyzing interconnection diagrams and specifications.
• Troubleshooting common interconnection issues.
• Case studies of successful DER integration projects.
• Discussion on future challenges and ongoing research in DER interconnection.

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.