Energy
Solutions: Energy Distribution Systems
Battelle-Japan has access to scientific teams who have provided transmission and distribution research, development, and other support to the U.S. Department of Energy, other federal agencies, and the commercial sector for more than 30 years. This work covers a range of products and capabilities that include power systems engineering, as well as related projects in utility policy, end-use demand management, infrastructure protection, and other services that support power system operations. Teams of electrical and mechanical engineers, utility economists, and technology analysts specializing in power system design, performance, and reliability, contribute to the efficiency, safety, and reliability of transmission and distribution systems covering thousands of miles and serving millions of people.
Grid reliability
We use simulation, measurement, and analysis expertise to help determine factors that affect the energy system. Our transmission reliability research and technology development focuses on understanding and managing electrical system behavior in the areas of automatic controls, system operations, and planning. Our scientists participated in the Eastern Interconnect Phasor Project, implemented in 2004, which provides the first real-time, system-wide data to utilities and transmission operators within the power grid that serves the entire U.S. East Coast. The project involved installing a suite of new measurement technologies employing satellite-based time clocks at key locations on the grid to measure power flows in real time. With these systems in place, grid operators have improved "situational awareness" so they can see what is happening in neighboring systems and determine how to protect their own system.
Smart appliances
Our scientists apply expertise in electric transmission and distribution to explore demand-response technologies and design "smart" appliances that respond to price signals or indications of power grid congestion. For example, our Grid Friendly™ Appliance controller senses grid conditions by monitoring the frequency of the system and provides automatic demand response in times of disruption to serve as a "shock absorber" for the grid.
Pipeline safety and integrity
Battelle uses innovative pipeline technology—-backed by more than 50 years of experience and a dedicated Pipeline Simulation Facility with over a mile of full-scale flow loop—-to create safe, efficient delivery systems for energy providers. We develop system integrity tools and protocols and streamline design and operation throughput for natural gas and hazardous liquid transmission companies. Our cost-effective solutions prevent or mitigate potential integrity risks, effectively monitor security and exposure to third-party threats, and provide customized corporate strategies for pipeline operations.