Utilities Tech Outlook Weekly Brief
Be first to read the latest tech news, Industry Leader's Insights, and CIO interviews of medium and large enterprises exclusively from Utilities Tech Outlook
DER aggregators and grid-edge intelligence are emerging as vital factors in the utility sector’s journey towards futuristic capabilities.
FREMONT, CA: The inclination of utility companies towards introducing modern infrastructure and services is resulting in a host of innovations at various levels. Currently, a prominent trend in the utility sector involves Distributed Energy Resource (DERs) and edge technology. With renewable energy making headways, new market opportunities have emerged. These are closely linked to technological advancements that induce intelligent capabilities into utility facilities at the edge. Besides, investment patterns have also evolved to support advancements, and big players are entering the market with innovative offerings. The following are some of the ongoing developments, discussed in details, concerning DERs and the Grid Edge.
Aggregated DERs
The popularity of facilities like rooftop solar has allowed for the DER trend to spread across vast geographical regions. These DERs provide users with a reliable and alternative source of electricity. As traditional service providers struggle with operating the grid due to unforeseen breakdowns and blackouts, DERs have become dependable and affordable. When DERs are allowed to aggregate, there appear to be more opportunities in improving energy services. Thus, the prospects for DER aggregators look broad.
Intelligence-Driven Grid Edge
Intelligent systems will enable improved functionalities at the grid edge. Today, aggregation is not all; there is scope for intelligently connecting resources to pool the surplus and enhance efficiency. When individual facilities are linked up, and interoperability is incentivized, the DERs and the main grid can function together in real-time. The potential of systems at the grid edge can be augmented by incorporating intelligent solutions that help collect and analyze grid data and thus contribute to optimized operations.
Investments and Innovations
Several startups dealing in DERs are inviting a lot of interest and investment. While mergers and acquisitions are increasing, there are partnerships and collaborations between leading technology players and utility providers to introduce edge technology and modernize grid architecture.
The evolution of the intelligent grid edge is an indication of the potential DERs carry today, as well as in the future.
See also: Top Cognitive Solution Providers
