Dispatchable Demand Control with AdaptiVolt™

What is Dispatchable Demand Control?
Demand Control is a method of controlling energy costs and reducing electric demand by decreasing the rate at which energy is consumed. Dispatchable Demand Control allows the utility to control this rate from the utility’s office as the need arises (i.e. peak shaving, load shifting, etc.).

What is the purpose of Dispatchable Demand Control?
Dispatchable Demand Control allows the utility, from their offices, to reduce the electricity consumed from the power grid in a relatively short time frame. This allows the utility to reduce and meet peak demands without the need for additional generation or power supply as well as balance loads and shift peaks.

How has Dispatchable Demand Control traditionally been practiced?
Traditionally, a popular approach to demand control has been the practice of undertaking a study of utility load profiles and then working with customers to reduce their energy consumption based on the profiles and the need. Often times energy consumption is reduced by customers turning off appliances or operating them at different times during the day.

How does AdaptiVolt™ provide Dispatchable Demand Control?
AdaptiVolt™ works independent of customer action. In addition, no lengthy load profile studies need to be undertaken since the system continuously monitors real-time end-of-line voltage and system adjustments and their effects can be made and seen immediately.

By applying AdaptiVolt™ to selected substations throughout its distribution infrastructure, a utility can dispatch voltage-based demand control within seconds. AdaptiVolt™ utilizes secure digital communications to implement its closed-loop control system. By integrating AdaptiVolt™ into an existing SCADA system, or using it as a stand-alone platform, the utility has a powerful new tool to reduce load as conditions require.

Benefits of the AdaptiVolt™ DSM Program?
For Customers

• Minimizes any inconvenience to the customers – Customers are not required to follow schedules of operations, participate in incentive programs or be subjected to undue risks of blackouts.
• All customer classes (residential, rural, commercial and industrial) benefit from the operation of a fully automated and adaptive load monitoring and control system that saves them money on their monthly electrical bill.
• Prolongs the useful life of customers’ equipment by respecting name plate ratings and operations standards (ANSI C 84.1 - 1995 and CSA).

For Electric Utilities

• Provides electric utilities with a demand response capability which can be dispatched within seconds either system wide or in specific portions of its distribution infrastructure.
• Enhances grid reliability by dealing with electricity demand at its source, i.e. with customers, and providing electric utilities with significant reductions in reactive power requirements with power factor improvements.
• Allows electric utilities the capability to offset upgrades, optimize their current distribution infrastructure and build capacity from within as opposed to purchasing additional generation capability.
• Streamlines the timely use of available energy and ultimately reduces energy purchase needs or allows for a timely energy purchase process.
• Provides an additional revenue stream for integrated utilities that are able to sell energy into the market.

For the environment

• Saves energy and the environment alike. Before planning new generation projects and power lines or dispatchable generation capability, the respect of the environment dictates a more efficient approach and use of current electric distribution assets.