The SmartGrid™ Control Suite is an integrated platform for managing distributed energy resources (DERs), microgrids, and industrial power distribution systems. It combines modular hardware controllers, advanced optimization algorithms, and SCADA-compatible monitoring to ensure safe, reliable, and cost-efficient energy operations. This overview describes the main components, operational layers, and key interactions that users should understand before troubleshooting.

Architecture at a Glance

SmartGrid™ Control Suite operates across three functional layers:

1. Hardware Layer

   • Modular Power Controller Units (PCUs)

   • Sensors and measurement inputs

   • Safety relays and isolation circuits

2. Control & Optimization Layer

   • Real-time energy optimization algorithms

   • Load balancing and peak shaving modules

   • Renewable energy integration logic

3. Supervisory Layer

   • SCADA integration (Modbus/TCP, IEC 61850)

   • Human–Machine Interface (HMI) dashboards

   • Event logging and compliance reporting

Modular Power Controller Units

The PCUs are the foundation of the SmartGrid™ system.

• Scalable design: Each unit can be added or removed without system downtime.

• Flexible I/O: Supports analog, digital, and high-speed communication interfaces.

• Redundancy: Units can be configured in parallel for fail-safe operation.

Energy Optimization Algorithms

The control suite includes built-in algorithms designed to minimize operating costs while ensuring system stability.

Key functions:

• Peak Shaving – Reduces demand charges by limiting maximum grid draw.

• Load Prioritization – Ensures critical equipment receives uninterrupted power.

• Renewable Forecasting – Predicts solar or wind availability and optimizes storage.

• Demand Response – Interfaces with utility signals for grid support participation.

Algorithms operate on a real-time decision cycle, typically every 250 ms, ensuring rapid response to fluctuations in load or generation.

SCADA-Compatible Monitoring

SmartGrid™ Control Suite is fully compatible with modern industrial SCADA platforms.

• Protocols supported: Modbus/TCP, IEC 61850, OPC UA.

• Data points: Voltage, current, frequency, power factor, harmonic distortion.

• Event notifications: Faults, alarms, and operator overrides are published in real time.

Operators can configure custom dashboards to display KPIs such as:

• Renewable contribution (%)

• System load vs. capacity

• Alarm frequency by category

ISO-Compliant Safety Features

Safety and compliance are embedded into every layer of the system.

• Emergency Stop Circuits (E-Stop) – Hardwired interlock across all PCUs.

• Safety Relays – Monitor current, voltage, and relay continuity.

• Overcurrent & Overvoltage Protection – Automated trip logic ensures rapid shutdown in <100 ms.

• Audit Logging – All safety events are timestamped and stored for compliance with ISO 13849 and IEC 61508.

Typical Deployment Scenarios

SmartGrid™ Control Suite is used in a variety of settings:

• Microgrids: Seamless coordination of renewable sources, batteries, and backup generators.

• Industrial Power Distribution: Load balancing across multiple production lines to avoid costly downtime.

• Renewable Energy Plants: Optimization of solar, wind, and storage integration for stable grid export.

• Isolated Grids (Islands/Remote Sites): Ensures energy independence with built-in redundancy and black-start capability.

Why Understanding the System Matters

Troubleshooting is most effective when technicians understand the interplay of hardware, algorithms, and supervisory systems. Many issues stem from misconfigured optimization settings, incomplete SCADA integration, or safety triggers. By keeping the architecture in mind, users can rapidly narrow down root causes.