Distribution System Architecture Transformation

Image composite created by Cortland Johnson

The United States electric distribution system is undergoing significant change due to a range of drivers, including an evolution of federal, state, and local policies addressing adaptation, as well as an increasingly diverse and distributed set of electricity resources. Changes in the use of the electric distribution system require a new grid architecture that includes physical infrastructure, sensing and communication, and system protection, automation, and controls.

Distribution System Architecture Transformation connections

The Distribution System Architecture project establishes system architecture, referencing designs and functional requirements for a distribution system operational model that fully integrates consumer and community resources into the fabric of a transformed electric grid. The resulting guides enable practitioners to apply grid architecture principles and concepts in the development of new distribution system architectures and designs, as well as associated grid technology roadmaps.

This project augments the foundational concepts of the Modern Distribution Grid project and adapts other related industry efforts. From this rich set of architectural materials, the project derives a holistic set of architectural and design considerations to help non-technical decision-makers plan for distribution system transformation. This also involves technical guides to assist distribution system planners, architects, and engineers in applying key capabilities, architectural considerations, and reference system designs to their distribution transformation plans and execution. This includes considerations for developing grid operational and information technology roadmaps that reflect the unique journey of each locale and utility.

S-curve graph showing the optimal scope and scale of integration and use of distributed energy resources from the year 2000 through the year 2040, showing that we are at the middle of the S-curve in 2023.

References

Research topics

Grid Architecture