Guide to Selecting Communications Protocols for DER Management

This guide provides recommendations for selecting appropriate communications protocols for Distributed Energy Resource (DER) management. It outlines QualityLogic's unique role in advising utilities, vendors, and regulators on protocol standards. The document emphasizes the importance of choosing the right messaging protocols to ensure effective communication between devices, detailing both industry standards and vendor-specific protocols. It discusses the implications of using various protocols, including DNP3, IEC 61850, and IEEE 2030.5, and their relevance in different DER applications such as utility-scale solar, demand response, and battery management. The guide also highlights the concept of effective longevity in communication protocols, which aims to maximize the in-service lifetime of devices while minimizing costs. QualityLogic's recommendations serve as a starting point for organizations looking to navigate the complexities of DER communications, encouraging independent analysis for specific applications.