Aligning Institutional Design and Grid Architecture: A Framework for Managing Hidden Systemic issues

 

Speaker: Issao Hirata

 

Chair: Dr. Wayes Tushar

 

Abstract:

The rapid growth of distributed energy resources (DER), such as rooftop solar, batteries and electric vehicles, is changing how electricity systems operate. Supporting this transition requires the coordinated development of engineering solutions, digital platforms and institutional reforms. Electricity systems comprise a network of interacting structures, including physical networks, communication, control systems, industry roles, and market arrangements and regulatory frameworks. Decisions within one structure can create requirements, constraints and dependencies in others, resulting in a complexity that can leave important system-wide implications hidden during reform processes.

 

This research examines how institutional choices shape the technical and digital capabilities needed for DER integration, particularly at the distribution level. It proposes adapting Grid Architecture principles into a diagnostic framework to identify hidden dependencies and assess the wider system implications of proposed reforms. The aim is to help policymakers and engineers consider these interactions more explicitly, supporting coherent reform and the development of future electricity systems.

 

Bio: