ARRA SGDP City of Fort Collins (Research Development and Demonstration of Peak Load Reduction on Distribution Feeders Using Distributed Energy Resources)

The primary aim of the project was to demonstrate the monitoring, aggregation, distribution system integration, dispatch, and verification of distributed generation, renewable energy, and demand response resources (collectively, Distributed Energy Resources or DER) for reducing peak loading on two feeders within Fort Collins Utilities electric distribution network by at least 15% (target goal was in the 20% to 30% range). Over 3.5 megawatts (MW) of DER from approximately 5 different participant locations were aggregated to demonstrate technical feasibility and the benefits of DER to asset owners and distribution network operations. Distributed generation sources (including renewable generation sources) that were part of the demonstration include photovoltaic, micro-turbines, dual fuel CHP systems using process-generated methane, reciprocating engines, conventional backup generators, wind turbine simulator, plug-in hybrid electrics in a vehicle-to-grid configuration, and fuel cells. Demand response capabilities were aggregated from a mix of heating and air conditioning loads, process loads, and thermal storage. Energy efficiency upgrades also contributed toward long-term reduction of loads on the selected feeders.