July 16, 2003—Technologies for on-site distributed power generation and storage hold promise for consumers and electric grid operators. Ideally, users who decide to produce enough power for their own needs could sell excess electricity back to the grid—a scenario that requires safe and reliable two-way power flow. To address this issue, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) is developing GridGateway, a low-cost, universal interconnection device.
The technology in the GridGateway provides a “protective firewall” for the electric utility system while enabling two-way power flows. It will also have programmable protective relay functions with communication links for monitoring and setup, as well as a testable interface for system maintenance.
Examples of distributed generation systems include fuel cells, microturbines, and photovoltaics. One of the near-term applications for the GridGateway technology will be to facilitate photovoltaic interconnections for commercial and residential establishments at significantly lower costs. Installed costs are estimated to be under $400 for mass markets.
EPRI is now seeking funding to complete the development of the GridGateway. Early participants in EPRI’s GridGateway project will play an instrumental role in specifying requirements and testing the functionality of the early devices. For more information on participation in the GridGateway project, contact Bill Steeley at 650/855-2203.
