Real-time data for microturbine testing: CERA develops prototype for future distributed generation system management - Distributed Power - Cambridge Energy Research Services - Brief Article

Diesel Progress North American Edition, May, 2002

Users evaluating microturbine generators and systems now have real-time Internet access to real-world-simulated test stand data. Cambridge Energy Research Associates (CERA) is providing manufacturers, customers, and utilities access to operating microturbine generators through a standard web browser at www.cera.com.

"This installation will help users fully assess the new microturbine technology and its future role in distributed generation installations," said Steven Taub, director, Distributed Energy at CERA. "Sitting at their desks, our clients can see detailed views of the test site and equipment and download and analyze real-time and historical data."

Through the web site, CERA clients can create customized reports that:

* Analyze electricity production, efficiency, heat production and fuel quality.

* Compare operating results to manufacturers' specifications.

* Track the effects of temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure on performance.

* Evaluate power quality delivered from the individual microturbine generators.

CERA contracted with Connected Energy Corp. to bring this test stand online using its Central Operating Management System (COMSYS) -- a product that offers web site monitoring for generators, air compressors, chillers, boilers and other equipment. In addition to the capabilities available through the CERA web site, COMSYS uses secure web communications to enable remote control over equipment in the field and asset management and maintenance features including work order submission and tracking, work history, parts lists, and machine component diagrams.

"The ability to remotely monitor and manage distributed energy systems will be a critical enabler of market acceptance, and this is a prototype of how it could be done," said Christopher Campbell, Connected Energy Corp. president and CEO. "Most distributed energy users will rely on service providers and manufacturers to maintain, service, operate, and even own the equipment. Connected Energy provides a cost-effective way for these service providers to monitor, troubleshoot, service, and even control remote equipment -- all securely through a standard web browser."

The microturbine test stand used for CERA's assessments is located on the University of California campus in Irvine, and is administered by Southern California Edison. Three microturbine generators -- two from California-based Capstone Turbine Corp. and one from Bowman Power Systems in the U.K. -- are currently operating.

According to Stephanie Hamilton, distributed generation manager for Southern California Edison, "We've been running independent tests on 12 microturbine generators under real-world conditions since 1996, some of which are complete. This web-based platform allows us to continue our leadership role in demonstrating the cutting-edge distributed generation technology."

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