Building DER Portfolios
How to combine different distributed energy resources for optimal performance, cost, and reliability
Your Progress
Section 2 of 5The Art of DER Portfolio Design
Creating an effective Virtual Power Plant requires careful selection and balancing of different types of distributed energy resources. Each DER type brings unique strengths and characteristics to the portfolio, and the optimal mix depends on the specific goals, location, and market conditions.
The key is finding the right balance between generation sources (solar, wind), storage systems (batteries), and flexibility resources (demand response, EVs). This balance ensures reliable operation, cost-effectiveness, and maximum value from grid services and energy markets.
Portfolio Design Principles
- Diversification: Mix different resource types to reduce risk and improve reliability
- Complementary Profiles: Combine resources that peak at different times
- Scalability: Design for easy expansion as new resources become available
- Market Alignment: Optimize for specific revenue streams and grid services
Interactive DER Portfolio Optimizer
Adjust the portfolio mix using the sliders and see how it affects cost, reliability, and carbon performance. Try different optimization goals!
Portfolio Optimization
Solar PV
Photovoltaic solar generation
Wind Power
Onshore wind turbine generation
Battery Storage
Lithium-ion battery storage
EV Chargers
Electric vehicle charging infrastructure
Demand Response
Load management and curtailment
Portfolio Analysis
Total Capacity: 0% of target (100 MW)
Optimization Goal: Minimize capital and operating costs
Best Performance: Cost-effective solution
Recommendation: Adjust sliders or use auto-optimization for better results