SEL powerMAX Microgrid Control System Ensures Reliable Power for Community Fire Station During Storm Season

Microgrids that incorporate energy sources like BESS (battery energy storage system) and photovoltaic (PV) systems allow islanding from the grid during outages to ensure the reliable and resilient delivery of electric power to critical infrastructure and communities. With the SEL powerMAX microgrid control system (MCS), microgrids disconnect and operate independently when there is an outage on the main grid. Upon service restoration, the microgrid resynchronizes with the grid and recharges the BESS.

Challenge

Samish Island’s position in the Salish Sea between Samish and Padilla Bays in northwest Washington exposes it to high winds during the fall and winter storm season. Puget Sound Energy (PSE) provides electric service to Samish Island. Their electric system is often damaged due to the severe weather and downed power lines, leaving critical emergency services vulnerable to frequent and prolonged grid outages.

Solution

PSE, in collaboration with SEL, installed an advanced powerMAX MCS to provide flexible management of their BESS- and PV-powered microgrid. The solution provides islanded power support to the fire station and neighboring residences at the end of the line during power outages. Other features of the custom-built solution include the ability to actively manage numerous generation sources and loads, along with an HMI to enable real-time control.

Results

During the first storm season of operation, the microgrid operated successfully through multiple islanding events, providing local power, sometimes for several hours, until PSE restored service to the incoming line. The MCS isolated the microgrid and maintained voltage and frequency, which supported the load of the fire station and neighboring homes during the outages. The solution also seamlessly reconnected and synchronized with the grid when conditions improved and managed recharge of the BESS.