ESIG is launching a new Task Force to support utilities in understanding practical pathways toward more active distribution system operations as DER adoption, electrification, and system complexity continue to grow. While significant work has been done in Europe and Australia, there remains a need to translate these experiences into actionable insights for utilities in the U.S. and across the globe.
This Task Force will bring together utility planners, system operators, and industry stakeholders to explore real-world implementation of active distribution system management through utility case studies, lessons learned, and practical recommendations. Over 9–12 monthly meetings, participants will examine different operational approaches, including models with and without centralized DERMS, and discuss the capabilities needed to manage increasingly dynamic distribution systems.
The goal of this effort is to produce a report that captures key insights, identifies capability gaps, and outlines actionable recommendations to support more active distribution system operations.
Topics for Discussion and Advancement Include:
- US and international case studies of active distribution system operations across different DER, technology and policy environments
- Operational models for managing DERs and flexibility resources
- Role of data infrastructure, including AMI, telemetry, and forecasting tools
- Coordination between planning and operations in increasingly dynamic systems
- Comparison of approaches with and without centralized DERMS platforms
- Key technical, operational, and organizational challenges
- Practical recommendations for utilities considering active distribution management
We are seeking active participation from utilities, regulators, technology providers, and other stakeholders with experience or interest in DER integration, flexible interconnection, and distribution system planning and operations.
If you are working to advance distribution system operations, this is your opportunity to contribute to shaping a practical, utility-driven approach for the industry.