Managing renewable energy assets is no small feat. Balancing the performance of technologies like wind, solar, and battery energy storage systems (BESS) can feel like an intense juggling act. Operators face unpredictable weather, grid demands, scaling portfolios, regulatory complexities, and the need to integrate diverse systems.
But the right SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) solution can simplify the chaos. SCADA systems empower teams to operate more efficiently, maintain reliability, and unlock new revenue opportunities.
In our “SCADA Uncovered” video series, Ioannis Grammatikakis, VP of Global Sales at Power Factors, breaks down how advanced SCADA solutions unlock the full potential of renewable energy operations. From enabling real-time decision-making to ensuring smooth operations across portfolios, the series explores how SCADA makes a tangible difference.
What is SCADA and why does it matter in renewable energy?
SCADA technology has come a long way since its industrial roots in the 1960s. Today, it’s the backbone of renewable energy operations, functioning like a central nervous system for solar, wind, and BESS assets.
Modern SCADA systems provide real-time visibility, allowing operators to monitor conditions, respond quickly to critical alarms, and control assets remotely—minimizing costly site visits. By automating routine tasks, SCADA frees teams to focus on higher-value priorities while providing critical data to grid operators, ensuring compliance and adaptability in dynamic energy markets.
The value of control systems in renewable energy
SCADA systems often work alongside power plant controllers (PPCs) to optimize operations. While PPCs are separate devices, their integration with SCADA enables precise control and seamless grid interactions. This integration is vital for two main reasons:
Grid stability: Ensuring renewable energy assets meet the technical requirements set by grid operators.
Market participation: Supporting energy trading and ancillary services, such as frequency response and voltage regulation, to unlock new revenue streams.
By leveraging SCADA and PPCs, renewable energy operators can achieve a balance between operational efficiency and financial performance.
Local vs. central SCADA
Understanding the difference between local SCADA and central SCADA systems is key when selecting the right setup:
Local SCADA: Designed for individual sites, addressing the unique needs of specific assets. They are well-suited for managing operations on a smaller scale but can become limiting as portfolios grow.
Central SCADA: Manage entire portfolios from a centralized platform, making it ideal for independent power producers (IPPs) and independent service providers (ISP) with growing fleets of varying asset types.
Unlike retrofitted local systems that attempt to centralize operations, true central SCADA systems are purpose-built for scalability, offering the seamless integration and comprehensive oversight that growing portfolios demand.
Watch part one of the “SCADA uncovered” video series “Monitoring and control basics” to learn more about the fundamentals of SCADA.
Part 1: SCADA uncovered: Monitoring and control basics
Choosing the right SCADA system
Choosing a SCADA system is a strategic decision that affects both day-to-day operations and long-term scalability. Here are a few questions to guide the process:
Is it compatible? Can the system manage solar, wind, and BESS technologies effectively?
Is it secure? Does it include robust cybersecurity protections against evolving threats?
Is it scalable? Will it grow with your portfolio without sacrificing performance?
Is the vendor experienced? Does the vendor specialize in renewable energy and are they capable of long-term support?
Additionally, a system purpose-built for renewable energy often outperforms generic alternatives, thanks to built-in industry knowledge and best practices.
Overcoming implementation challenges
Implementing a SCADA system can be a demanding process, especially for operators managing a combination of greenfield (new) and brownfield (existing) assets. Complexities like hybrid systems, grid integration, and market participation requirements only add to the challenge.
To mitigate these risks, it’s important to start with a clear and detailed specification for the SCADA system. This specification acts as a blueprint, making sure there is consistency and scalability across all installations.
Selecting a vendor with proven experience in renewable energy SCADA systems is another critical step, as their expertise ensures that you receive the necessary customization and configuration support. With the right planning and partnership, even complex projects can be executed successfully.
In the second part of our series, "SCADA Uncovered: Key factors for choosing the right system," Ioannis dives deeper into what businesses should prioritize when selecting a SCADA and control system and looks at strategies for successful implementation.
Part 2: SCADA Uncovered: Key factors for choosing the right system
The power of data integration
As SCADA systems evolve, so does the wealth of data they generate. It forms the foundation for advanced business applications, like asset performance management (APM) and AI-powered analytics platforms. When integrated effectively, SCADA data gives organizations a competitive edge by enabling:
Real-time decision-making: Adjusting asset performance to capitalize on peak demand or prevent failures.
Forecast optimization: Helping energy traders decide the best times to produce, store, or sell energy.
Streamlined compliance: Automating reporting to reduce administrative burden.
Enhanced analytics: Gaining insights into market trends and asset performance for data-driven decisions.
By bridging operational data with business systems, SCADA can drive better outcomes across the board.
The role of BESS and hybrid projects
The growing volume of BESS and hybrid projects adds another layer of value to SCADA systems. These assets address key challenges like intermittency and grid stability while opening new revenue streams:
Here’s how:
Energy arbitrage: Operators can store electricity during periods of low demand—such as midday when solar production is high—and sell it when demand and prices peak, typically in the evening. This allows operators to maximize profits by selling energy when prices are most favorable.
Ancillary services: BESS unlocks opportunities to provide frequency response and voltage regulation, which support grid stability and facilitate the integration of renewable energy into the grid. These services not only enhance grid performance but also provide additional revenue streams for operators.
By optimizing energy dispatch and leveraging SCADA’s role in hybrid project integration, operators can take advantage of price spikes, offer valuable services to grid operators, and secure profitability, making renewable energy projects more economically viable.
The right combination of hardware and software
Advanced hardware and software play a key role in overcoming operational challenges and seizing new opportunities. SCADA systems equipped with the right technology can enable:
Grid stability: Sensors and controllers within SCADA systems minimize downtime, optimize energy output, and ensure reliable interactions with the grid.
Hybridization: Integrating energy management software with SCADA allows for seamless coordination between renewable generation and energy storage, resulting in enhanced grid performance.
Data-driven decisions: Analytics platforms, fueled by SCADA data, offer actionable insights for better participation in energy markets and more efficient asset management.
Watch part three of SCADA uncovered, Ioannis looks closely at the importance of SCADA data integration and explains how BESS and hybrid projects are shaping the future of renewable energy.
Part 3: SCADA uncovered: Why data integration is key to success
Interested in learning more about how Power Factors can help you optimize your renewable energy operations? Get in touch to explore our Unity renewable energy management suite.
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