WG 5: Smart Grid International Research Facility Network
Overview
Working Group 5, also known as the Smart Grid International Research Facility Network (SIRFN), is a collaborative network of leading smart grid researchers, testbed facilities and relevant projects fostering international collaboration among ISGAN member countries.
The international community can use SIRFN’s collaborative testing and evaluation capabilities to enhace the design, implementation, and testing of smart grids and their functionalities, including the reliable integration of clean energy technologies.
The SIRFN network
SIRFN allows participating countries to evaluate pre-competitive technologies and systems across various smart grid implementation scenarios and locations, using standardised testing procedures. The research conducted in each member country leverages its unique capabilities and environments. Test data is made public to accelerate the development of smart grid technologies, systems, and policies.
WG 5 develops and validates technologies, protocols, standards, and systems capable of operating effectively in diverse geographical areas and grid environments. It takes a structured approach to proposing, selecting, and executing projects that align evaluation needs with testing capabilities. SIRFN shares non-proprietary results in order to enhance smart grid technologies, protocols, and standards.
Based on their complementary capabilities, researchers and testbed facilities engage in SIRFN, conducting specialised simulations and evaluations in areas such as distributed and renewable energy integration, energy storage systems, advanced distribution management, advanced metering infrastructure, cybersecurity, and related applications. This collaborative approach ensures that each participating organisation’s research benefits from the unique capabilities and environments of the other partners.
Objectives
SIRFN aims to achieve four key objectives:
To build a comprehensive knowledge base
The primary goal is to establish and share an extensive knowledge base covering smart grid testing facilities, test beds and major demonstration projects. This resource enables participants and potential users to identify and compare essential capabilities for their specific requirements.
To share information and best practices
The second objective is to disseminate information about current capabilities and ongoing work. This involves sharing non-proprietary research results, best practices, methods and information on existing collaborative efforts. By fostering transparency, SIRFN aims to improve the understanding of smart grid testing practices and outcomes.
To enhance testing capabilities
SIRFN aims to enhance the existing smart grid testing and evaluation capabilities by identifying knowledge gaps. The initiative aims to organise and coordinate joint research and testing efforts, minimising duplication of work and optimising the utilisation of existing expertise. This collaborative approach is intended to enhance the quality and efficiency of smart grid testing.
To facilitate project proposal and implementation
The final objective is to create a framework to help users and SIRFN facilities to propose and implement smart grid testing projects. This involves aligning evaluation needs with testing capabilities. Furthermore, SIRFN establishes a platform through which all participants and stakeholders can benefit from exchanging non-proprietary results, advice, and assistance. Through this collaborative framework, SIRFN aims to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative smart grid technologies.
Focus areas
The work of WG 5 is carried out by a global network of experts and managed through several focus areas, known as Joint Research Activities, in collaboration with other networks and partnerships.
Deliverables
Working Group Manager (Germany)
Ron Brandl
DERlab
