The evolution of DER management systems (DERMS) [WEBINAR] - 6/25/20

The evolution of DER management systems (DERMS) [WEBINAR] - 6/25/20

by Tim McDuffie and Pete Maltbaek (Smarter Grid Solutions) · View the channel on PSI

Applied Sciences & Engineering Energy THEnergy technology and engineeringTHYEnergy, power generation, distribution and storage
🎙 Tim McDuffie and Pete Maltbaek (Smarter Grid Solutions) 👥 249 📅 June 25, 2020 ⏱ 64 min 👁 6K 📄 expert opinion 🧭 2026-10-10
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

DERMSDistributed Energy ResourcesGrid ControlMicrogridsInterconnection

Summary

This webinar, presented by Tim McDuffie and Pete Maltbaek from Smarter Grid Solutions, explores the evolution and practical application of Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS). The presenters begin by outlining the company’s origins and its work in the UK, where DERMS have been widely deployed to manage constrained networks and integrate renewable energy. They then explain the concept of DERMS, emphasizing its role in enabling utilities to manage high levels of distributed generation without costly infrastructure upgrades. The webinar covers the key drivers for adopting DERMS, including regulatory pressures, grid visibility, and the need to expand hosting capacity in California. The technical architecture of a typical DERMS is described, comprising a centralized control platform that communicates with edge devices to automate and optimize grid operations. Several use cases are highlighted, such as optimizing behind-the-meter storage, aggregating resources for virtual power plants, and supporting microgrid operations. Specific deployment examples include Con Edison’s four-battery project in New York City and various projects in the UK and Canada, demonstrating the versatility of DERMS in both distribution and microgrid contexts. The presenters also address the interaction between DERMS and microgrid controls, noting that the same layers of control can manage both. The webinar concludes with a discussion of how DERMS can be offered as an optional alternative to traditional grid upgrades, and how they can serve as a bridge between aggregators and utilities. Throughout, the focus is on the practical benefits of DERMS in facilitating the transition to a more distributed and renewable-based grid.

251 words

Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The value of the information lies in its detailed explanation of DERMS technology and its real-world applications, which are directly relevant to energy professionals, utilities, and policymakers. The argumentation is pragmatic, built on the premise that DERMS offer a cost-effective and flexible alternative to conventional grid modernization. The presenters support their claims with references to specific projects and measurable outcomes, such as achieving 300% export in Scottish islands and enabling integration of multiple batteries in New York. They also acknowledge the regulatory and contractual challenges, which adds credibility. However, the argumentation is single-sided, framing DERMS as the preferred solution without discussing potential drawbacks or alternative approaches in depth. The value is high for those seeking technical context and implementation examples, but critical comparison with other grid management strategies is missing.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The presenters demonstrate strong domain expertise, and the technical content appears accurate based on current industry knowledge. However, sources are largely internal or case-specific, and the webinar functions partly as a promotional tool for Smarter Grid Solutions. The only external source explicitly provided is a link to the slides, which is informative but not independent. The title accurately represents the content, as the webinar indeed covers the evolution and processes of DERMS. No significant discrepancies between title and content were observed. The discussion is rigorous in its technical details but lacks academic citations or references to independent studies, relying instead on the company’s own projects. Overall, the scientific rigor is moderate, with the inherent bias of a vendor-led presentation.

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Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the content: the webinar discusses the evolution and technical aspects of DERMS, including applications and case studies.

Quality & Reliability

7/10

The presenters are experienced engineers with direct industry expertise, and they provide concrete case studies and technical details. However, the content is partly promotional, focusing on their company's solutions, which limits objectivity.

Key Moments

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

Cited Sources

Contribution & Novelties

The webinar provides a comprehensive overview of DERMS technology from the perspective of a leading vendor, offering practical insights into deployment architectures and use cases. Its contribution lies in consolidating information about how DERMS address grid constraints and enable integration of distributed resources, with real-world examples from the US, UK, and Canada. It particularly highlights the dual role of DERMS in both normal grid operations and microgrid islanding, which is a nuanced point often overlooked.

Pour aller plus loin :

  • Distributed Energy Resource Management System (Wikipedia) — Overview and definitions of DERMS.
  • Active Network Management (Wikipedia) — Related concept used to optimize distributed generation on constrained networks.
  • IEEE 1547 Standard for Interconnection of Distributed Resources — Key standard governing DER interconnection, relevant to system design and communication.

127 words

Radar Profile

The radar profile shows high scores on quantity of information and technical level, reflecting a content-rich, technical presentation. Quality of information is moderately high, while overall reliability is lower, likely due to the promotional nature of the content. This suggests a technically adept but potentially biased source that is informative for understanding DERMS but should be balanced with independent sources.

Reliability 6/10