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What Is Flexible Interconnection?
Flexible interconnection is a grid management approach that enables DERs to connect beyond traditional hosting capacity limits by using real-time monitoring and control. Instead of relying on fixed system assumptions, utilities dynamically manage DER output to avoid voltage, thermal, or system constraints, which unlocks capacity.
Figure 2: Fixed Hosting Capacity vs. Real-time Hosting Capacity (Fixed Hosting Capacity) vs. Flexible Interconnection.
Understanding these core terms helps clarify how flexible interconnection works:
- Firm Hosting Capacity: The maximum DER capacity the grid can safely accommodate under conservative, worst-case assumptions (Avangrid).
- Flexible Hosting Capacity: Additional DER capacity that can be integrated using dynamic controls such as curtailment or export limits to prevent system violations (NREL).
- Flexible Interconnection (Non-Firm Interconnection): An approach that allows DERs to connect under managed conditions, where output may be adjusted in real time to maintain grid reliability (EPRI).
- Curtailment: The controlled reduction of DER output to ensure safe system operation and prevent overloads or instability (NREL).
| Concept | Simple Framing | Key Difference | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firm Hosting Capacity | Grid capacity with no intervention | Always available | Defines baseline limits |
| Flexible Hosting Capacity | Capacity with active management | Conditional | Expands usable grid capacity |
| Flexible Interconnection | Connection method using controls | Enables flexibility | Avoids upgrades, speeds interconnection |
| Curtailment | Output reduction when needed | Real-time action | Maintains reliability |
Why Flexible Interconnection Matters Now
Utilities today must balance three competing priorities:
- Speed: Connecting DERs and large loads faster
- Cost: Avoiding expensive infrastructure projects that trigger increases for ratepayers
- Reliability: Maintaining stable grid operations
Flexible interconnection addresses all three by:
- Unlocking unused grid capacity
- Reducing dependence on long upgrade cycles
- Enabling real-time grid optimization
How MEPPI Enables Flexible Interconnection
MEPPI’s Strata Grid DERMS delivers a proven, scalable approach to flexible interconnection.
1. Real-Time Grid and DER Control
Strata Grid leverages patented real-time algorithms to continuously monitor grid conditions and DER performance, applying fast, autonomous control actions to maintain safe operating limits. It applies threshold-based corrective control to dynamically adjust DER export or import set-points, ensuring local grid assets operate safely within their limits.
2. Model-Free Architecture for Faster Deployment
Unlike other DERMS platforms, Strata Grid does not rely on a network model. This significantly reduces:
- Deployment time
- Implementation complexity
- Upfront cost
Utilities no longer need to wait for perfect data sets to achieve DER value.
3. Targeted, Scalable Grid Relief
Strata Grid’s model-free architecture also supports targeted deployments, allowing utilities to address specific network constraints. Solutions can scale over time as demand grows.
Case Study: Avangrid (FICS)
*Image credit Avangrid.
Problem
Avangrid was receiving customer feedback related to the high cost and timescale of DER interconnection being driven by the need for grid upgrades.
Solution
Using Strata Grid, Avangrid introduced flexible interconnection methods. Customer interconnection agreements were amended to incorporate the fast-acting, autonomous control methods used by Strata Grid to minimize curtailment actions.
Result
The project demonstrated the capability of Strata Grid to double grid hosting capacity and reduce customer need for capital expenditure.