Smart Grid R&D by the U.S. Department of Energy to optimize distribution grid operations

This paper highlights the U.S. Department of Energy's Smart Grid R&D projects on dynamic optimization of distribution grid operations through integration of advanced sensing, communication, and control technologies. The progress and planned activities of the following programs are discussed: Renewable and Distributed Systems Integration demonstrations, microgrid developments, the Smart Grid Regional Demonstrations, and five new projects from the FY 2010 Smart Grid RD&D Funding Opportunity Announcement. In addition, potential focus areas for the Smart Grid R&D Program in FY 2011 are presented.