Originally published as part of Metering & Smart Energy International Issue 5 2016 special report Seattle City Light takes a holistic approach to grid modernisation U nder the leadership of CEO Larry Weis, Seattle City Light (City Light) has created a technology innovation division to explore grid modernisation technologies such as microgrids, distributed energy resources (DER), automation, demand response and others within the utility. Some of City Light’s earliest grid modernisation initiatives include converting existing substations to ‘smart’ stations, capable of remote monitoring, near real-time information collection and distribution, and improved performance. The utility serving over 750,000 residents also upgraded its power delivery and distribution systems, reduced distribution losses and energy consumption by optimising voltage and reactive power flow. It has also begun to prepare for large-scale advanced meter infrastructure rollout. Michael Pesin, former chief technology adviser and smart grid architect at Seattle City Light, stated that “it is important to note that smart grid is not defined by what technologies it incorporates but rather by what it can do.” He added: “While there is a set of enabling technologies, each utility will have its own portfolio of systems and technologies based on the unique factors that define the utility. City Light’s advanced grid will not emerge from a single rollout of a revolutionary technology but from strategic planning and initiatives all aimed at a long-term vision.” DER and EV integration At the customer-end, City Light has modernised its grid connections to support offsite power generators and storage units such as solar panels, wind turbines and battery systems. It is also working to integrate plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) and establish vehicle charging infrastructure to enable controlled charging of EVs. City Light has launched a pilot project through which it will install charging stations for electric cars in several hundred homes, as well as 20 fast-charging stations around the city where motorists can charge their vehicles in as little as 30 minutes. Seattle Mayor Ed Murray has set a target whereby 30% of all vehicles on Seattle’s roads will be electric by 2030. 2 Grid modernisation