Development of Remoted Terminal Unit with Real-time Communication for Optimal Operation of the Virtual Power Plant

Abstract

We developed a remote terminal unit (RTU) with real-time communication for the optimal operation of a virtual power plant (Vpp) platform. Currently, Vpp presents two issues during operation: 1) inadequate implementation of real-time communication of measured data and 2) insufficient data security, high initial investment cost, maintenance cost, and insufficient ease of installation. To overcome these problems, we developed an integrated RTU module. The main objective was to develop a real-time power generation information transmission module that combines the functions of a power meter, an RTU, and environmental sensors, such that real-time information can be transmitted from the PV inverter, environment sensors, and power meters. Furthermore, the RTU can employ the standard protocol for exclusive PV system communication and save data during communication failure for as long as 90 d. It can also immediately transmit the saved data after recovering from a communication failure. Moreover, we developed an RTU webpage where users can change the configuration of the RTU module and monitor the condition of the inverter connection and power generation.