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Distributed Energy Resources Interconnection
Distributed Energy Resource (DER) integration refers to the process of interconnecting various energy generation and storage technologies, such as solar panels, wind turbines, battery systems, and charging stations, into the existing power grid. Utility companies must then evaluate the existing resources on the grid to determine whether the project can be built, connected, and operated in a safe and reliable way. Interconnection is dictated by a complex network of laws, regulations, and administrative processes that have been developed at the regional, state, or utility-territory level. Interconnection policies specify the processes, timelines, costs, and technical requirements associated with connecting DERs to the grid.
Interconnection Qualifier (IQ)
IQ is a software platform that streamlines and automates the detailed interconnection studies for distribution systems. Most interconnection automation solutions focus on the process and workflow management. IQ’s capabilities go beyond workflow management and automate detailed impact studies for utility-scale DERs. IQ completes an interconnection study including the detailed impact study in less than 5 minutes.
Fully Automated Impact Study
IQ completes an interconnection study including the detailed impact study in less than 5 minutes.
Seamless Database Integration
Seamless integration of utility existing database to generate accurate model of distribution system.
Advanced Modeling Capabilities
Comprehensive library of DER models including smart inverters and energy storage systems
Automated Mitigation Selection
Fully Automated mitigation selection for any failed measure in the impact study
Interconnection Report
Fully automated report generation containing impact study results, mitigation strategies, and interconnection cost estimates
DoE i2X Roadmap
Although IQ’s completion predated the DoE i2X Roadmap announcement in Jan. 2025, its capabilities align with the four major goals outlined in the roadmap.
DoE i2X Roadmap Goal | IQ’s Contributing Feature |
|---|---|
Maintaining a reliable, resilient, and secure grid | Advanced modeling capability to serve as an integrated planning tool for large-scale electrifications |
Promoting economic efficiency in interconnection | Accurate modeling avoids the need for conservative assumptions and requirements |
Improving interconnection processes and timelines | Automated detailed impact study in less than 5 minutes |
Increasing data access, transparency and security | Transparent and consistent methodologies used in impact studies across all utilities |
IQ Data Handling
Accurate distribution system model that includes all connected equipment and load is necessary for interconnection studies. However, utilities legacy databases often use outdated technologies and data models, making it difficult to integrate with newer systems and applications. Legacy systems tend to isolate data, making it difficult to share and analyze information across different departments or systems. IQ utilizes modern and innovative data analytics to integrate legacy database (such as CYME, Synergi, and GE SmallWorld) and utilize it to generate distribution system model.
Analytical Features
Voltage Analysis
IQ performs all voltage-related analysis required for interconnection such as overvoltage, undervoltage, voltage fluctuation, voltage flicker, substation and feeder regulation for reverse power.
Mitigation Strategies
Identifying any negative impact on distribution system is not enough. Selecting a mitigative solution is needed to complete the interconnection process. IQ can identify the optimal mitigation along with its cost estimate for any failed measure in the interconnection study.
Automated Reports
A transparent and easy-to-understand report that summarizes the results of interconnection study and outlines interconnection costs and next steps are necessary for developers. IQ can generate interconnection report upon completion of the study.
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