Flexible Resources (Distributed)

Energy Resources connected to the Distribution Network that can, in a reliable and firm manner, modify their operational behaviour in response to Bulk Power System, Transmission Network and/or local Distribution Network needs in a manner that is acceptable to the Customer or owner/investor.

Underpinned by advanced approaches to Operational Coordination, large fleets of Flexible Resources (Distributed) can beneficially alter the Demand profile of a Feeder, Substation, Distribution Network, Transmission Network and/or the Bulk Power System.  Targeted structural choices are required to avoid unintended consequences and ensure Co-optimisation across all vertical Tiers/Layers of the Power System.

Four categories of flexible behaviours that can be beneficial to the Power System include:

  1. Shape – Increasing or decreasing Demand routinely according to a recurring long-term pattern;
  2. Shift – Increasing or decreasing Demand as requested in response to an external signal;
  3. Shimmy – Increasing or decreasing Demand over very short timescales in response to an external signal; and,
  4. Shed – Switching off equipment entirely.

The terms Demand Management, Demand Response, Load Shifting, Controllable Load and Interruptible Load are generally synonymous with the concept of Flexible Resources (Distributed). Active DER/CER are generally considered a key means of providing distributed flexibility services.

Definition Feedback

Given the fast-evolving nature of power system transformation, the Future Grid Accelerator (FGA) has the status of a perpetual BETA version. Your suggestions for how each concept and definition may be enhanced are very welcome.

All feedback will be reviewed and considered for inclusion in subsequent updates.

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