Testbed Capabilities
Core Features
Real-Time Simulation
RTDS and Typhoon HIL simulators capable of evaluating and validating distributed energy resource (DER) integration and control strategies.
Edge Computing
Our Computing Nodes are designed to support the growing demand for edge computing and controls in power system networks.
Microgrid Laboratory
Our Microgrid Laboratory offers a comprehensive platform for testing, research, and development of advanced energy solutions.
Campus DER
DERConnect includes a ‘living laboratory’ by connecting with resources on the UCSD campus.
Research Infrastructure
| Technology Type | Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Simulation - RDTS | 300 nodes in EMT mode, 1500 nodes in TSA mode |
| Simulation - Typhoon HIL | Four HIL 606 Real Time Simulators and various controllers |
| Grid Emulator | Four quadrant amplifier, 30 kVA, DC signal generation |
| Batteries | 5 batteries totaling 0.5 MW |
| Edge Computing | 2,500 total nodes, 2,200 hardware nodes |
| HVAC | 65 Air Handler Units, 39 Fan Coil Units |
| Ultra Capacitor | 660 Second Charge/Discharge, 120 kW, 28 kWh |
| Load Bank | 500 kVA, 0-1 Power Factor |
| Lighting | 1,727 LED fixtures (occupancy and light level sensors), 865 Lighting Controllers |
| Plug Load Controllers | 683 plug load controllers, ON/OFF and power measurements, office equipment such as printers, copiers, water dispensers, TVs |
| EV Charger | 800 PowerFlex charging stations |
| PV Inverters | 2 inverters meeting IEEE 1547.2018 certification. Metering data from other PV sites on campus |
| Power Measurement Units | 8 PMUs across the UCSD microgrid |
| Electrical Metering | 24 building meters with 2 second data collection. 236 submeters to get power measurements from AHUs, lighting, plug loads, and misc loads |
Real-Time Simulation Testing Platform
Various real-time digital simulators are deployed to form the ultimate testing environment for power systems with DERs.
High-Fidelity TestingUser Testing Process
The following diagram illustrates the structured test process available to users.
Test Your Way
Remotely Accessible Lab
DERConnect is designed as a remotely accessible living lab where users can develop and test DER control algorithms.
Remote Access 24/7