NOW HIRING: Production Electronics Technicians

Using Modbus to Communicate with Multiple OZpcs-RS40s

The OZpcs-RS40 is a 40kW Power Conversion System (PCS) intended for battery-based energy storage applications. The PCS is designed to be mounted in a standard 19” rack, and easily paralleled to scale power capability. All hardware interfaces are located on the front panel, utilizing pass-through type terminal blocks for simple daisy chained cable or bus […]

Frequency/Watt Smart Inverter Functionality

In a previous post, I discussed how the Volt/VAR function can be used to provide grid voltage stabilization during over and under-voltage conditions. In addition to stabilizing out of tolerance voltage conditions, over and under-frequency grid conditions can also be mitigated using Frequency/Watt functionality. In a manner similar to Volt/VAR, the Frequency/Watt function will automatically […]

Volt/VAR Smart Inverter Functionality

To support grid voltage stabilization during over and under-voltage conditions, UL1741 certified smart inverters, such as the OZpcs-RS40, can be configured to automatically absorb or inject reactive power based on grid voltage measurements. This behavior is commonly referred to as Volt/VAR control and is implemented using a configurable array of points, that when combined, define […]

What is Smart Grid Technology?

Demand for electricity is expected to continue growing at historical rates for the foreseeable future. While utility companies strive to meet that demand by financing and constructing new power-generating plants, fueled by coal, atomic energy, wind, sunlight, and water, they’re also scrambling to create a “smart grid.” The essence of the smart grid technology is […]

Alternative Energy Distribution Methods

The term alternative energy generally describes renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Hydroelectric energy accounts for the majority of U.S. renewable energy, at 70 percent, though the use of solar, wind and other renewable energy is continuing to grow. Methods of alternative energy distribution vary, and here I’ll provide a brief description […]