The wide-spread introduction of renewables (solar and wind generation) has been a tremendous benefit in helping to reduce greenhouse gases and diversify the energy supply.  However, integrating these new distributed energy resources (DERs) into the grid is not without challenges.

One of the most critical factors is proper coordination between utility substations and DERs to effectively clear a fault; thus, preventing damage to equipment and ensuring the safety of line crews that might be working on the affected area. 

Traditionally, this coordination has been through the use of leased telephone lines that interconnect protection equipment at both the substation and the DER site.  Unfortunately, over the last several decades telecom providers have moved away from copper lease lines to more advanced services.

Replacement options like fiber optic cables or microwave communication links are available but can be very costly.  Another option is cellular LTE technology, but with the critical nature of DTT many utilities do not feel comfortable using it for the application.

Watch this webinar and discover how New England’s largest energy provider, Eversource, implemented an innovative DTT design using SEL’s 3505 RTAC and Sierra Wireless’ cellular gateways to communicate and control reliably over LTE.