Explore with us the impacts, both today and in the future, of DSOs, RTO markets and FERC 2222 on the Bulk Power and Distribution grids.

The construct of a Distribution System Operator (DSO) enables a distribution system operator to manage distribution reliability and power quality. Additionally, DSOs support high-DER grid operations with active VPPs, third-party aggregators, and management of grid services for both distribution and bulk power operations.

At the bulk power level, reliable grid operations with high levels of weather-dependent variable generation requires increased levels of  flexible resources  to  provide  necessary  grid  services, such as ramping, balancing energy, and reserves, to support transmission grid operations. At the distribution level, increased levels of DERs and technology-enabled demand-response (DR),when aggregated into Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), provide considerable flexibility to not only enhance the economics and resilience of the distribution grid but also support bulk power needs for resource adequacy, flexibility, and ancillary services.

However, the supply of such services from the grid edge for bulk power operation could impact distribution reliability. Furthermore, with most DER and DR assets being owned by customers and third parties,  and  their controls constrained  by  tariffs  and  commercial  agreements, managing  distribution  reliability  along  with  VPP  operations  is  becoming  increasingly challenging.

This workshop will address the following:

• The current distribution operations and customer  services  technology  landscape,  OT and IT systems - requirements and business practices.
• Emerging distribution operations challenges and requirements – control center, utility enterprise, and customer perspectives
• Regulatory considerations,  FERC  2222 requirements,  ISO/RTO and market opportunities.
• Hosting capacity, flexible interconnections, dynamic operating envelopes
• ADMS and DERMS – functional roles, integration requirements
• The DSO Construct, various models and functional capabilities
• DER Registry and Operational Coordination Considerations
• International perspective

Who should attend this workshop?

• Utility staff in charge of grid operations and OT
• Utility staff in charge of customer service and IT
• Utilities, G&Ts, and other entities considering becoming a DSO
• Aggregators (DER Aggregators and Community Choice Aggregations)
• Bulk power operators; particularly RTOs subject to FERC 2222
• Research organizations
• Regulators

In Partnership with: OATI