Hosting Capacity Analysis (HCA)

Optimizing DER Interconnection & Management for the Modern Distribution Grid

June 23, 2020 | , ::

“Hosting Capacity Analysis” (HCA) is an analytical tool that helps utilities, regulators and developers evaluate the best locations for distributed energy resources (DERs) to be added to the grid and determine their grid impacts, and what they are worth at each location.  HCA can be used as an interconnection screen and to steer optimal development of DERs on the distribution system.  It is increasingly being recognized by distribution planners a key technique for streamlining the DER interconnection process, through studying the impact and value of DERs on the grid in specific locations.  This process then enables utilities to optimally place DERs on the grid and effectively manage their grid impacts.

Many utilities wanting to implement HCA tools may not know where to start, or fully understand what HCA is and its proper applications and current limitations.  This course will walk attendees through basics of HCA, through the more advanced stages and considerations of how to properly use HCA alongside Heat Maps to optimize the placement and manage operation of DERs on the distribution system.

Learning Outcomes

• Discuss and define basic goals and uses of “Hosting Capacity Analysis” (HCA)
• Examine how HCA can be an important tool for optimizing interconnection and integration of DERs
• Review best implementation methods of HCA, current applications and limitations
• Identify how HCA can be used in conjunction with Heat Maps

Tuesday, June 23, 2020 – Central Time

9:40 – 10:00 a.m. :: Log In & Sign-On to E-Learning

10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. :: Course Timing

12:00 – 1:00 p.m. :: Lunch Break

1. Hosting Capacity Analysis (HCA) – Overview and Define
2. Management of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)
   1. How DERs affect the entire electric system
   2. Criteria for DER interconnection
3. How HCA Fits in With:
   1. Distribution system planning (short and long-term)
   2. Location choice of DERs
   3. Managing load and growth on the distribution grid
4. How HCA can Improve Interconnection and Integration of DERs
   1. Improve back-log of interconnection requests and system studies
   2. Provide better information for customers = better customer relationships
5. Key Goals of Implementing HCA for Distribution System Analysis
   1. Identifying how many DERs can be added to any interconnection point on the system
   2. Determining where DERs can cost-effectively serve the system
   3. Identifying best sites for future development of DERs
   4. Obtaining locational views
6. Finding the Right Method for HCA on a Particular System
   1. Determining the difficulty of actually doing a HCA
   2. Developing proper analytical tools for your system
7. Hosting Capacity Maps (HCM)
   1. Overview of HCMs
   2. Determining the values in HCMs
   3. What violations are looked at when creating a HCMs
   4. Utilizing heat maps in conjunction with HCMs
8. Using Heat Maps in Conjunction with HCA
   1. Identifying areas of pending and installed generation
   2. Working around congested areas
9. Hosting Capacity Results Analysis
   1. How small changes in setting up feeders can dramatically change results
   2. Other considerations besides feeder hosting capacity
10. Visibility and Control of DERs – Best Practices
    1. Methods to increase hosting capacity on distribution feeders

Steve Steffel, Manager – Regional Capacity Planning for Distributed Energy Resources, Pepco Holdings (Exelon)

Steve Steffel has been working with Pepco Holdings, Inc. (PHI) since 1984 in various positions in Engineering Standards, System Operations, Substation Switchman Training, Transmission and Distribution Planning, and Distributed Energy Resources Planning and Analytics.  The focus in DERP&A has been to analyze and plan for the interconnection of various types of distributed generation on the distribution grid, develop and maintain criteria, deploy new electric system modeling tools, prepare and present papers and presentations on the impact of PV on the grid and work with Public Service Commission personnel, the Regional Transmission Operator, and public officials and industry professionals.  In addition, efforts have also focused on collaboration with industry partners and the DOE in finding new solutions for hosting renewables.

Vladyslav Anderson, Electrical Engineer, Pepco Holdings (Exelon)

Our courses are designed to be the best possible use of your valuable time – get the information you need to improve your position in the market in an interactive, dynamic format.

We will be using Microsoft Teams to facilitate your participation in the upcoming event. You do not need to have an existing Teams account in order to participate in the broadcast – the course will play in your browser and you will have the option of using a microphone to speak with the room and ask questions, or type any questions in via the chat window and our on-site representative will relay your question to the instructor.

• You will receive a meeting invitation will include a link to join the meeting.
• Separate meeting invitations will be sent for the morning and afternoon sessions of the course.
  • You will need to join the appropriate meeting at the appropriate time.
• If you are using a microphone, please ensure that it is muted until such time as you need to ask a question.
• The remote meeting connection will be open approximately 30 minutes before the start of the course. We encourage you to connect as early as possible in case you experience any unforeseen problems.

REGISTER NOW FOR THIS EVENT:

Hosting Capacity Analysis (HCA)

June 23, 2020 | ,