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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 181 records · Page 10
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2023

Electrical Fault Detection, Power Quality, Distributed Energy Resource Use Cases, and Cyber Event Applications with the Cyber Grid Guard System Using Distributed Ledger Technology

Electrical utilities continue to deploy more intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) inside and outside electrical substation and are associated with distributed energy resources (DERs). The integrity and confidentiality of data from IEDs is crucial, and distributed ledger technology (DLT) could improve the resilience of microgrids by helping to make these data more secure. The most popular applications using blockchain technology for electrical utilities is in the field is based on energy trading. However, the dynamism of the penetration of customer owned DERs and the deployment of sensors with IEDs have led to the identification of new applications using DLT that are focused on other areas, such as monitoring, operation and management of the grid and its assets. In addition, the majority of studies on electrical grid applications with blockchain were validated with software simulations. Although general monitoring of power systems for using DLT could be evaluated in operational electric grids, other DLT research applications such as defense against cyber-attacks and/or electrical fault detection are not likely to be performed in a real infrastructure because of possible risks to the network/equipment security. This report summarizes the application of power system applications using distributed ledger technology (DLT), providing a secure DLT framework for collecting data from IEDs like power meters and protective relays inside and outside of an electrical substation and/or between two different electrical utilities. In this study, the use case scenarios were created and assessed for different power system application by using DLT. The electrical fault detection for faulted phases (1), power quality monitoring of phase voltage magnitudes, frequency levels and load power factor (2), DERs use case monitoring (3), and cyber-event applications (4) were performed in a test bed with a Cyber-Grid Guard (CGG) system using DLT. It had a real-time simulator with power meters and protective relays in-the-loop. The first section of this report presents a literature review of power system applications using blockchain at research level. The second section shows the theory and equations used on this report. The third section shows the description of the test bed, equipment, architecture, and electrical grid diagrams. The fourth section shows the experimental models and use case scenarios that were performed for the electrical fault detection, power quality, DERs use case, and cyber event applications with the CGG system using DLT. The fifth section shows the results collected from the tests based on comparing the time stamped events of the analog signals from the IEDs, DLT computer and real time simulator. The sixth section performed the discussion of the results for the use case scenarios. Finally, section seven presents the conclusions for this report were presented.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2022

Ten questions concerning energy flexibility in buildings

Demand side energy flexibility is increasingly being viewed as an essential enabler for the swift transition to a low-carbon energy system that displaces conventional fossil fuels with renewable energy sources while maintaining, if not improving, the operation of the energy system. Building energy flexibility may address several challenges facing energy systems and electricity consumers as society transitions to a low-carbon energy system characterized by distributed and intermittent energy resources. For example, by changing the timing and amount of building energy consumption through advanced building technologies, electricity demand and supply balance can be improved to enable greater integration of variable renewable energy. Although the benefits of utilizing energy flexibility from the built environment are generally recognized, solutions that reflect diversity in building stocks, customer behavior, and market rules and regulations need to be developed for successful implementation. In this paper, we pose and answer ten questions covering technological, social, commercial, and regulatory aspects to enable the utilization of energy flexibility of buildings in practice. In particular, we provide a critical overview of techniques and methods for quantifying and harnessing energy flexibility. We discuss the concepts of resilience and multi-carrier energy systems and their relation to energy flexibility. We argue the importance of balancing stakeholder engagement and technology deployment. Finally, we highlight the crucial roles of standardization, regulation, and policy in advancing the deployment of energy flexible buildings.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2021

FY21 NREL Wind Energy Accomplishments and Mid Year Performance Report

This report takes stock of the research NREL conducted on behalf of DOE’s Wind Energy Technologies Office (WETO), other funding and research partners, and the people of the United States during the first half of FY21 (between Oct. 1, 2020 and March 30, 2021). While diverse, all of these efforts shared a common goal to accelerate the deployment of wind energy technologies by helping to improve wind power performance, lower costs, and reduce market barriers to create a more sustainable, secure, and resilient power grid and a cleaner energy future.

49 EE - Wind and Water Power Program - Wind (EE-4W↗
DOE OSTI2024

Vehicle and Mobility Technologies 2024 Annual Impact Report

Research and development at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory supports the U.S. Department of Energy's Vehicle Technologies Office in advancing efficient and sustainable transportation technologies that will improve energy efficiency, fuel economy, and mobility energy productivity, and will enable America to achieve a resilient, secure, clean, and affordable transportation future.

ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS,ENERGY PLANNING, POLIC↗
DOE OSTI2020

Low-Income Energy Affordability: Conclusions From A Literature Review

This paper examines the persistent problem of high energy burdens among low-income households, based on a review of more than 180 publications that pointed to several promising opportunities to address energy affordability including inclusive solar programs, leveraged health care benefits, and behavioral economics. using an equity and affordability lens. Even after decades of weatherization and bill-payment programs, low-income households, on average, continue to spend a higher share of their income on electricity and natural gas bills than any other income group. Energy burden for low-income households is not declining, and it remains persistently high, particularly in the South, in rural America, among minority households, and those with children and elderly residents. On a per household basis, utility companies spend less on energy-efficiency programs for low-income households than for other income groups. In addition, government and utility programs that promote rooftop solar power, electric vehicles, and home energy storage are largely inaccessible to low-income households. Our review identifies promising opportunities to address energy affordability including inclusive solar programs, leveraged health care benefits, behavioral economics, data analytics, advanced information and communication technologies, and grid resiliency. Scalable approaches require linking implementing agencies, programs and policies to tackle the complex web of causes and impacts on low-income households with high energy burdens.

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY↗
DOE OSTI2025

Grid Architecture Mapping to Understand Transformation (GAMUT): Concept Definition

The electric power system is undergoing significant transformation driven by changes in the generation mix, increasing reliance on information and communication technologies, evolving customer expectations, and a dynamic cyber-physical environment. To address these challenges, substantial investments will be made over the next decade to create a flexible, affordable, secure, reliable, and resilient electric system. In response, the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Electricity is developing knowledge management tools aimed at systematically documenting technology pilots and demonstration projects. This initiative seeks to improve understanding of operating contexts, planning steps, and integration requirements for innovative grid technologies. The Department of Energy project leverages Grid Architecture principles to collect and organize insights into the interdependencies, requirements, and capabilities of various grid solutions. By employing a systematic approach, the project aims to perform a feasibility study for the development of a software tool that will support stakeholders, including regulators, transmission and distribution system operators, distributed energy resources aggregators, and technology providers. By offering a systematic, software-based framework to document technologies, understand their benefits and impacts, and inform deployment strategies, the proposed Grid Architecture Mapping to Understand Transformation (GAMUT) Tool is intended to reduce costs, enhance decision-making, and facilitate scaling and effective deployment of new technologies. The feasibility study will evaluate the technical and financial viability of the GAMUT Tool, identifying stakeholder needs and assessing risks and mitigation strategies. Ultimately, the GAMUT team aims to develop an initial minimal viable product, followed by staged improvements, to aid in the modernization of the electric grid, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2026

Energy Technology Innovation Partnership Project [Slides]

This presentation introduces the Energy Technology Innovation Partnership Project (ETIPP) and outlines proposed technical assistance to support St. Vincent's House in developing a resilient community hub in Galveston, Texas. The project explores opportunities for on-site energy solutions to ensure continuity of critical services during coastal hazards and grid disruptions. The session aims to gather stakeholder input to refine priorities and inform next steps for resilient, reliable, and cost-effective energy strategies.

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY↗
DOE OSTI2021

Geothermal Heat Recovery Complex: Large-Scale, Deep Direct-Use System in a Low-Temperature Sedimentary Basin (Final Report)

A feasibility study of using deep direct-use (DDU) geothermal energy to heat agricultural research facilities (ARFs) was conducted at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (U of IL) and its similar application to military facilities in the Illinois Basin (ILB). The geothermal energy system (GES) investigated utilizes low-temperature (30–90°C; 90–190°F) geothermal fluid (i.e., brine) from an extraction well that is part of a deep, two-well (doublet) system that extends to the bottom of the ILB. The geothermal reservoir modeled, the Mt. Simon Sandstone (MSS), is about 1,280 m (4,200 feet) deep and 457 m thick (1,500 feet) beneath the U of IL. The DDU GES surface infrastructure includes heat exchangers connected in-parallel to pipelines carrying the geothermal fluid and fresh cold and hot water. Analysis of the GES indicated that the MSS can provide a baseload of 2 MMBtu/hr to heat the ARFs by extracting 954 m³/d (6,000 barrels/day [bbl/d]) of geothermal fluid that has a temperature of 44–46 °C (111–115 °F). In addition to analyzing the levelized cost of heat (LCOH) and life cycle costs, the environmental effects of the DDU GES were evaluated, including reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and water consumption. Multiple system designs were evaluated and then ranked based on their maximum heating performance, energy efficiency, and cost recovery. This feasibility study identified the key components of the fully-integrated DDU technology that can be implemented, both technically and economically. The results and information from this study provides end-users and policy makers with guidance for additional research on the specific components of DDU technology such that its widespread use can provide an uninterruptible energy source, increase resilience from extreme weather conditions, reduce U.S. dependency on fossil fuels, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The site-specific part of this study gives U of IL administrators a realistic and pragmatic assessment of the financial resources necessary to add a DDU GES in the MSS to the campus’ energy portfolio.

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY↗
DOE OSTI2025

Energy Efficiency for the Wastewater Industry

This information sheet discusses the technology pillar, Energy Efficiency, as a pathway toward improving wastewater infrastructure sustainability and resiliency.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2022

Integrating Cybersecurity with System Operations and Restoration

This presentation covers the interaction of the discipline of system operations with the discipline of cybersecurity. First, a common mental model for risk - both cybersecurity and all-hazards - is presented, followed by a discussion of high-level management strategies for different kinds of cyber harm facing system operators, based on the consequences and frequencies of the harm. The next section covers the importance of cybersecurity for a system operator organization and explains some general concepts to understand the relationships. Finally the role of system operators in the security of the grid as a larger system of systems is discussed over the framework of a resilience event.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Supply Chain Management in Cyber Grid Guard Framework

Grid modernization has impeded innovative power grid applications and energy resources that are increasingly distributed. Blockchain/distributed ledger technology (DLT) has the potential to enhance the resilience of the electric infrastructure, particularly in a decentralized and distributed environment. The benefits of blockchain are to ensure asset information and lifecycle events are secure and traceable and identify potential malicious modification of data. Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has developed a framework, Cyber Grid Guard (CGG), incorporating blockchain. The system implements a low-energy, fast, and robust enhancement to system trustworthiness within and across electric grid systems, including substations, control centers, and metering infrastructures. Currently, one of the major concerns is supply chain attacks. There have been several recent attacks that have significantly impacted critical infrastructures and organizations around the world. This document focuses on how CGG can be used to address the supply chain issue.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2021

Real Time - Optimal Power Flow Based Distributed Energy Resources Management System (DERMS) (CRADA Number CRD-20-16909 Final Report)

The integration of behind-the-meter distributed energy resources (DERs) into distribution systems brings transformative changes to power systems. This requires operators and planners to find solutions to modernize electric grids and to effectively manage DERs for grid services. NREL developed novel DER management algorithms (referred to as Real-Time Optimal Power Flow, RT-OPF) through U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)-funded efforts, including Advanced Research Projects Agency–Energy (ARPA-E) Network Optimized Distributed Energy Systems (NODES) funding. This cutting-edge control technology aims to modernize distribution systems with large amounts of DER integration, which will help utilities solve issues brought by renewable integration and build resilient and renewable-based electric grids nationwide. Utilidata worked with NREL to investigate the commercialization opportunity of this RT-OPF-based distributed energy resource management system (DERMS). In this project, NREL performs the technology transfer of the RT-OPF to Utilidata to help them fully understand the RT-OPF solution, to identify potential engineering hurdles, and to assess the expected commercial value of various RT-OPF use cases and deployment. The technology transfer work includes two major tasks. First, NREL performs an in-depth knowledge transfer of the entire RT-OPF solution to Utilidata to help them gain an extensive and detailed understanding of the complete RT-OPF solution. In this task, NREL provides exhaustive information (e.g., documentation, code packages, laboratory and field trial data, performance results) while conducting in-depth training sessions to provide a thorough explanation of the entire solution. NREL hosts meetings to present different topics related to the RT-OPF solution, and question-and-answer sessions are included in each meeting to better explain the RT-OPF-related work. Second, the RT-OPF simulations are performed in a laboratory environment. The main objectives of this task are to walk through with Utilidata engineers how to set up a simulation of RT-OPF, identifying each RT-OPF code block/component in operation, learning how these components interact with each other, and eventually running RT-OPF simulations under various system conditions. This task helps Utilidata engineers understand performance limitations and constraints while also quantifying the commercial value of the RT-OPF for different use cases. Based on these two tasks, Utilidata engineers should be able to define and prioritize the next steps of RT-OPF implementation with an eye toward commercial success and scalability of the solution. The next steps are expected to be part of a new project following the conclusion of this project.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2021

Impact of Blockchain Delay on Grid-Tied Solar Inverter Performance: Preprint

This paper investigates the impact of the delay resulting from a blockchain, a promising security measure, for a hierarchical control system of inverters connected to the grid. The blockchain communication network is designed at the secondary control layer for resilience against cyberattacks. To represent the latency in the communication channel, a model is developed based on the complexity of the blockchain framework. Taking this model into account, this work evaluates the plant’s performance subject to communication delays, introduced by the blockchain, among the hierarchical control agents. In addition, this article considers an optimal model-based control strategy that performs the system’s internal control loop. The work shows that the blockchain’s delay size influences the convergence of the power supplied by the inverter to the reference at the point of common coupling. In the results section, real-time simulations on OPAL-RT are performed to test the resilience of two parallel inverters with increasing blockchain complexity.

41 EE - Solar Energy Technologies Office (EE-4S)↗
DOE OSTI2023

International Cybersecurity: Capabilities and Overview [Slides]

Innovations in clean energy technology are beginning to transform electric grids around the world. It is more important than ever to understand and improve the resiliency and security of the grid against natural and human disruptions as our energy systems become more distributed, intelligent, and interconnected. Through its advanced cybersecurity technical assistance portfolio, experts at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) work with international governments to support secure and resilient deployment of renewable energy assets and address grid interconnection challenges. Cybersecurity technical assistance is tailored to the needs of our international partners.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2024

Industry Scan of Non-SF6 Gas-Insulated Technologies

Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF 6 ) is a specialty gas with excellent electrical insulation properties which has been used extensively in the power industry. This gas is unfortunately also one of the most potent greenhouse gases known to humanity. A 2014 report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change found that SF 6 has a global warming potential (GWP) 23,000 times higher than Carbon Dioxide, and has the highest GWP of all gases assessed (Myhre 2013). SF 6 is almost exclusively man-made and is produced for use as an insulator in high voltage electrical equipment. This makes the production and use of SF 6 one of the leading sources of anthropogenic climate change. Since SF 6 recognition as a significant contributor to climate change, most governments and organizations have sought ways to reduce or eliminate their use of this gas. Many utilities have initiated leak monitoring and repair programs which have significantly reduced emissions of this gas into the atmosphere. While leak reduction programs have been effective at reducing emission rates in the developed world, leak rates remain frozen at ~1% annually. However, one of the largest and fastest growing markets for this gas is in the developing world where emissions standards are often lacking (P&S Intelligence. 2023). To fully eliminate the environmental impacts of SF 6 , alternative technology is needed. The ideal replacement would be a technology that can fulfil the same role as SF 6 , at the same cost or cheaper, but without adverse environmental effects. Currently, no technology fits this description, however several promising technologies have begun to enter the market. This report was commissioned by the United States Department of Energy’s Office of Electricity under the Transformer Resilience and Advanced Components (TRAC) program to assess the state of industry adoption and manufacturing capability for SF 6 -free alternative technologies for use at the high-voltage level, and the primary barriers to broader adoption. While this report is tailored to the United States, the findings should be relevant to all stakeholders seeking to reduce SF 6 emissions.

24 - POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Dissolution and reprecipitation of amorphous silica in silica Rich shales induces Non-Monotonic evolution of porosity in acidic reactive environments

Advances in sustainable subsurface energy technologies are crucial for meeting our energy and resource needs for a climate-resilient future. Novel strategies to harness subsurface shale reservoirs for recovering valuable metals and for enabling CO 2 storage are influenced by the morphological and mineralogical heterogeneities of these materials. In this context, delineating the interactions of highly acidic solutions such as wet supercritical CO 2 on shales with varying mineralogy is crucial to inform the stability of caprock seal for CO 2 storage and enhancements in permeability for fluid transport, reactivity, and storage. The feedback chemical effects associated with the interactions of acidic solutions on the morphologies and mineralogies of shales have not been extensively investigated. These insights are crucial for assessing temporal changes in the reactivity and the fate of the fluids in subsurface environments. In this study, we investigate the effect of 1M HCl solution on the chemistry and morphology of three different shale samples with varying carbonate, clay and silica contents. An increase in the amorphous content, from 37% to 41.3%, of silica-rich and carbonate/clay lean shale is noted due to reactions with an acidic solution which is attributed to the dissolution of Si-bearing phases such as clays, accompanied by SiO 2 precipitation. In shales bearing high content of clays and carbonates, significant increase in the pore volumes and surface areas are noted. Non-monotonic changes in the micron-scale porosity of silica rich–carbonate/clay lean (e.g., Mowry shale) are noted using in-situ X-ray microtomography experiments. Due to the initial mobilization of silica and dissolution of carbonate/clay phases, the total porosity slightly increases from 6.7% to 10.7% followed by a decrease to similar to 4% caused by SiO 2 reprecipitation. In conclusion, these findings suggest that even though silica is less reactive in acidic environments, the changes in the amorphous and crystalline content due to dissolution and reprecipitation alter the porosity and fluid flow paths.

04 OIL SHALES AND TAR SANDS↗
DOE OSTI2022

Alternative Ratemaking in the US: A Prerequisite for Grid Modernization or an Unwarranted Shift of Risk to Customers?

With increasing frequency, investor-owned electric utilities are requesting preferred cost recovery for "grid modernization" in multiple forms, from multi-year rate plans to riders. Utilities' claims that massive grid investment is necessary, and that exceptional investment requires exceptional cost recovery, are typically accepted by policymakers with little challenge. It is difficult for policymakers to resist the siren call of grid modernization's perceived outcomes, from improved reliability and resilience to reduced risks to safety and new customer technology adoption (electric vehicles, distributed energy resources, and more). This paper provides a contrarian viewpoint that is virtually absent as policymakers consider alternative ratemaking practices. It introduces the possibility that excess grid investment in the name of modernization is not only possible, and economically harmful, but has already occurred, encouraged by alternative ratemaking. It provides examples of common grid modernization expenditures the authors have identified as cost-ineffective in the course of their work. It also describes traditional grid planning practices with proven ability to address changing requirements over time, calling into question the need for exceptional grid modernization investment plans. Most important, the paper explains the moral hazard inherent in alternative ratemaking, and the fundamental shift in ratemaking risks and responsibilities from utilities to customers that results. The perspectives this paper presents are critical for policymakers to understand before adopting, extending, or expanding alternative ratemaking practices in their respective jurisdictions.

ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY,POWER TRANSMI↗