1. Transforming the Distribution Grid
More than Smart:
Transforming the Distribution Grid
Southern California Edison
Erik Takayesu, Director of Electric System Planning
October 15, 2014

2. Transmission Substation
Current Grid
Smart Grid Deployment
Grid Modernization
Transmission Substation
Generator
Transmission
System
Renewable Generator
Transmission Interconnetion
Transmission Substation
LEGEND
Power Flow
Distribution
Substation
Open Switch
System
Distribution Planning
Radial configuration, 1-way power flow, relies on circuit ties to reconfigure system
Highly variable load patterns due to customer mix, microclimates, reconfigurations
Increasing complexity with variable resources
Emerging role for an integrated grid to facilitate distributed resources
Network configuration, redundant, 2-way power flows
Aggregate power flow, magnitude and direction based on system conditions (load, gen output, contingencies), relatively static configuration
Increasing complexity with large renewable integration

3. Grid Modernization: Evolving to a “Node Friendly” Platform
Current Grid
Smart Grid Deployment
Grid Modernization
Smart grid deployment plans established baselines for technology deployment
Guides future smart grid investments
SCE’s recent accomplishments include the Irvine Smart Grid demonstration and Tehachapi Energy Storage projects
Grid Modernization: Evolving to a “Node Friendly” Platform
Transparency in selecting locations and value determination
Low barriers to physical access and streamlined processes
Next generation grid to support technology and customer choice

4. Grid Modernization Focus Areas Requirements for the Future Grid
Current Grid
Smart Grid Deployment
Grid Modernization
Grid Modernization
Focus Areas
Planning - provide sufficient “integrated capacity”
Operations - manage increasing complexity and reliability
Optimization - utilize DER to manage costs, coordinated with grid performance
Requirements for the Future Grid
Advanced automation and sensors for improved situational awareness, ensure reliability, and safe/efficient grid operations
Define and deploy communication and control systems to support advanced capabilities and interoperability
Adopt and develop new tools in planning, grid management, and interconnection processes
Modernize planning, design, and operations
Increase interoperability between distributed energy resources, utility equipment, and customers.
Orchestrate DER as grid assets and optimize their use
Increase investments in monitoring, control, and communication systems in the longer term.
Utilize AB 327 and the DRP to prepare for transformative changes to planning processes and long term investment strategies.

5. 4/27/2017 3:45 AM
Future state based on evolving energy landscape
Advanced automation, monitoring, control, communication systems
Facilitates increasing renewables & two-way power flow
Increased interoperability with distributed energy resources
Improved data management and grid operations
Future Grid
The 21st century grid will continue to enable technologies that will support the state’s policy sustainability objectives, improve safety and reliability.