Grid Voltage Regulation with Distributed Energy Resources

Mr. Mark Baldassari
Director of Codes and Standards Enphase, Petaluma, CA

Cerent Engineering Science Complex, Salazar Hall 2009A
4:00 PM

Abstract - Utilities manage voltage drop along feeder circuits that can extend tens of miles. According to industry standards, a utility is obligated to keep the voltage at each service within 5% of its rated values. It usually accomplishes this using distributed capacitor banks and voltage regulators— automatically adjustable load-tap–changing transformers—placed at a few locations along each feeder. Distributed Energy Generation (DER) can help regulate voltage through Advanced Grid Functions (AGF) which control Reactive and Active power levels. The net result stabilizes grid frequency and voltage.

Mr. Mark Baldassari – has over 34 years’ experience in engineering and product development and over 10 years with Enphase Energy, where he holds the position of Director, Codes and Standards. Currently, he actively participates in a number of Codes and Standards development groups both internationally and domestically. Domestically, Mr. Baldassari regularly participates in IEEE 1547 series of standards development with emphasis towards improving the grid integration of PV systems. He is involved with Underwriters Laboratory working on the harmonization of UL and IEC standards and a Standards Technical Panel member for UL 1699B and UL 2703. Mr. Baldassari is an active member of the CalSEIA Codes and Standards and PV Industry Forum. He is very involved with the drafting of the 2020 NEC for articles 690 and chairman for article 705. Mr. Baldassari has bachelor degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from California State University Sacramento, USA.