Toward DyMonDS Framework for Resilient and Clean Electricity Services: The Puerto Rico Study

This monograph focuses on changing electric energy systems and shows how today’s operating and planning practices can be enhanced by relying on data-enabled predictions and decision-making software. In particular, we describe how the Dynamic Monitoring and Decision Systems (DyMonDS) framework can be utilized as a critical unified computer platform for enabling both operations and planning. An extended AC optimal power flow (AC OPF) software designed by Smart Gridz, Inc. is used to advise grid operators and planners for managing critical services during hurricanes and other extreme events, and to support the grid enhancement process for decarbonization in Puerto Rico, where many large fossil plants are scheduled for decommissioning. Estimates are given of: (1) about 50% critical load still served during hurricane conditions; (2) 40% total fuel cost decrease; and, (3) reduced requirements for new resource capacity, including microgrids, needed to replace old power plants. Based on the approach described, we suggest that huge opportunities exist to make the most out of what we have by deploying these methods in the Continental United States (CONUS) and elsewhere. Instead of pursuing high-cost build-up, we recommended enhancing the utilization of what exists and using data-enabled decision tools to decide systematically, according to well-defined and quantifiable performance objectives, the best upgrades and infrastructure enhancements.