Solar forecasting as an enablement tool for the distribution system operator (DSO)

Low voltage network operators, as well as other electricity sector actors and academia more broadly, are beginning to explore additional business models for more proactive management of Distributed Energy Resources (DER), including Behind-the-Meter (BtM) solar and energy storage. One such business model designed for managing higher penetrations of DER technologies is the "Distribution System Operator" (DSO). In this paper, we explore the potential future role of solar forecasting technologies in DER management through interviews with a variety of key stakeholders whom are developing the DSO model for Australia. The work frames interview results with a selection of three cases studies from Australian low voltage network operators (DNSPs - distribution network service providers) who have been given access to high resolution solar forecasting data. DNSPs are relevant in the DSO context, as it is possible they will create or partner with DSO entities in Australia.