Unlocking the Grid: How Hosting Capacity Analyses & Other Grid Transparency Tools Improve Energy Storage Interconnection Training
This training is the second in a two-part series on grid transparency, during which we provide a more detailed look at the process of developing grid transparency tools, with a particular focus on hosting capacity analysis (HCA)
Grid transparency—the ability to view data about the amount of new distributed energy resources the grid can accommodate—is essential for supporting the deployment of energy storage and solar-plus-storage. This training is the second in a two-part series on grid transparency, during which we provide a more detailed look at the process of developing grid transparency tools, with a particular focus on hosting capacity analysis (HCA), given its complexity compared to the other tools. During the first part of our grid transparency series, we discussed why grid transparency is essential for DER interconnection, and we compared the types of tools available to customers and utilities, including pre-application reports, distribution system data portals, basic distribution system maps, and HCA.
This grid transparency training goes into greater detail on:
- • How customers and developers use data from pre-application reports, distribution system data portals, and basic distribution system maps in the interconnection process;
- • How HCA is developed;
- The key decisions about the methodologies, software, and granularity of the HCA;
- • How data is presented to customers and stakeholders;
- • How regulators and utilities validate HCA data to ensure it is reliable and trustworthy;
- How customers and utilities can use HCA data to guide energy storage system design and interconnection. This training will be especially helpful for stakeholders with a mid-level understanding of grid transparency.
This training is especially helpful for stakeholders with a mid-level understanding of grid transparency.