Research Interests

Distributed Resources & Distributed Control The electric power system is one of the most complex, interconnected engineering systems in existence. The system is currently facing combined and often conflicting challenges from both the ongoing industry restructuring and deregulation efforts as well as from the introduction of new technologies. My research interests lie in investigating the integration of distributed technologies into the electric power system and the emerging competitive electricity markets. The research method lies in developing dynamic system models suitable for investigating operational and stability issues raised from interactions between the power system, individual technologies and the market structures. Interest in distributed technologies arises from their characteristics such as small size and modularity that offer lower-risk investments than traditional power system expansion options. These low impact technologies can be used to relieve local transmission bottlenecks or constrained load pockets in the power system. They are also typically easier to site than projects involving large generators or high voltage transmission lines. As such, distributed technologies, including small-scale generation and transmission control technologies and demand-side response, can be substitutes for long-term, large-scale generation and transmission system expansion projects. A second source of interest in distributed technologies comes from the fact that they can be the best option for addressing operational changes brought about by industry restructuring. For example, the challenge to operate the transmission system reliably has increased as restructuring has altered the use of the transmission system. In response to increasing volumes of wholesale power transactions, the high voltage system is now transmitting more power and for greater distances than was anticipated by the original designers. Distributed transmission control technologies (e.g., FACTS devices - flexible AC transmission system) address this change by allowing increased use of the transmission system and greater control over the flow on power lines. As competition increases, cooperation and the sharing of information between competitors become less frequent, decreasing the availability of system data and information. Operators of power facilities (central station as well as distributed technologies) are increasingly reluctant to relinquish control of their facilities to a centralized system operator. In addition, the legacy communication architecture that facilitates centralized control, is inconsistent with modern communication technologies and raises security concerns. These trends highlight the need for the investigation of alternative communications and control strategies that will effectively integrate distributed technologies into the power system, while recognizing that these technologies will be part of an industry that is increasingly competitive and decentralized.

photos from www.cleanair.web.net/whatsnew/photogallery.html, www.tca-us.com, www.nrel.gov/hydrogen/photos.html and www.pbase.com/dusty_d/p_windturbine