The Distributed Energy (DE) Technology Simulator has been developed as a simple, user- friendly, cost-effective tool to assess the applicability of Distributed Energy Technologies in a variety of applications. The DE Simulator is an integration of customized software and off-the-shelf hardware that monitors facility load and evaluates each of the on-site generation and storage technologies in real time within a virtual framework. Technologies can be simulated in different sizes and operating algorithms. This device can emulate the following technologies: microturbine, phosphoric acid, and proton exchange membrane fuel cells, diesel generators, peak-shaving and power-quality batteries. This is accomplished through a three-step process:
- Develop the initial technology model
- Validate the technology model by being connected to the technology while it is operating to measure, and save its three-phase voltage and current data every five seconds. The collected data is examined and mathematically reproduced to create technology profiles identical to the measurements.
- Demonstrate the accuracy and performance through site demonstration of the unit.
Energetics has worked with several demonstration participants who allowed the DE Simulator to be connected to their secondary meter in order to display how the DE technologies could benefit their site. Demonstration participants had their data files analyzed by Energetics' economic analysis software that evaluates the costs and benefits of each technology on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis at their sites.
Applications for the Simulator include:
- Function as Training Tool to Familiarize Decision-Makers with Emerging and Advanced DE Technologies
- Improve Energy Efficiencies for Building Complexes (e.g. Hospitals and Industrial Complexes)
- Assess Benefits of Distributed Energy Technologies at Remote Locations
- Analyze the Benefits of Converting Emergency Technology Units to Peak-Shaving Units