Distribution Systems
Distribution systems are the connection between the end user and the “grid” and usually carry electrical power from sub-stations (fed by High Voltage Transmission lines) to the farm or rural residence. This page provides resources to help you understand how the distribution system works as well as a collection of topics related to maintenance of the distribution system and connecting farms, homes and electrical generation equipment to the distribution system.
MREC Conference Presentations on Transmission and Distribution Systems
- Challenges for Regional Transmission Organizations as Energy Generation Changes, Derek Mosolf, MISO (2020)
- NEV Considerations for Transmission Line Construction and Maintenance, Mike Warntjes and Andy Eberhardt, American Transmission Company (2017)
- Regional and National Transmission Projects, Ben Stearney, North Region Operations Center of MISO (2016)
- Smart Grid and Impacts for the Rural Electric System, Massoud Amin, University of Minnesota (2015)
- What do Wind Turbines do for Single Phase Distribution? Jim Thiede, Infrastructure and Energy Alternatives, LLC (2015)
Distributed Interconnection
Electrical Energy generation facilities on farms require special equipment for connecting to the distribution system interconnection as well as metering electricity. Follow these links to find out about the regulations regarding interconnection as well as the hardware and technologies available for interconnection.
MREC Conference Presentations on Interconnect Issues
- Grid Interactive Electric Thermal Storage, Paul Steffes, Steffes LLC (2018)
- Grid-Interactive Electric Thermal Storage (GETS) Big Picture, Paul Steffes, (2018)
- Grid-Interactive Electric Thermal Storage (GETS) Specific Applications Paul Steffes, (2018)
- Grid-Interactive Electric Thermal Storage White Paper Paul Steffes (document, 2011)
- Standby Generation, Peak Shaving, and Tier 4 Engines, Nathan Huso, NRG Reliability Solutions, LLC (2015)
- Interconnection and Net Metering, Lise Trudeau, MN Dept of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources (2012)