The Need for Standardization: The Benefits to the Core Functions of the Microgrid Control System

As the penetration of Distributed Energy resources (DERs) in distribution systems increases, their integration and interconnection to the grid, and their impact on the grid, need to be addressed in a coherent and structured manner. In the case of a large penetration, DER s can be integrated by aggregating the units using a DER energy management system (DERMS) or can form part of the devices constituting a microgrid, in which case they are managed by the microgrid control system. This article stresses the need for standards to facilitate the large-scale deployment of DER in the distribution system within a microgrid.