Sunspec Webinar: Accelerating IEEE 1547 and UL 1741 SB Interoperability – SunSpec Alliance

SunSpec Webinar Recap : Accelerating IEEE 1547 and UL 1741 SB Interoperability

The Sunspec Alliance hosted a webinar discussing the initiatives to accelerate IEEE 1547 and UL 1741 SB interoperability testing. The webinar was led by Tom Tansy, Chairman of the Sunspec Alliance, and DERSecurity Corp CTO Jay Johnson. Their focus was to identify and rectify defects in achieving interoperability, as well as educating and informing participants on standardizing distributed energy resources. 

The webinar covered critical topics such as waveform capture and analysis, electrical and interoperability requirements for ride-through and trip functionality, grid support functions, and adjusting DER devices using standardized communication protocols such as SunSpec Modbus, DNP3, and IEEE 2030.5. 

Jay provided detailed insights into the testing of AC source performance, low and high voltage drive-through testing, measurement accuracy, and waveform data. He also demonstrated the DERSec LabTest Pro software, showcasing its extensive testing capabilities including voltage ride-through, trip tests, overvoltage and undervoltage regions, frequency trip, and frequency ride-through. 

Five Key Takeaways

1. Accelerated Interoperability Testing Through SunSpec Certification: The initiative to fast-track interoperability testing for IEEE 1547 and UL 1741 SB standards is crucial for the seamless integration of DER devices.
2. Standardized Protocols: Utilization of standardized communication protocols such as SunSpec Modbus, DNP3, and IEEE 2030.5 is essential for achieving interoperability and ensuring reliable grid support functions.
3. Advanced Testing Capabilities: Tools like DERSec LabTest Pro are instrumental in conducting comprehensive performance tests, including voltage and frequency ride-through and trip tests, ensuring DER devices meet required standards.
4. Importance of Adherence to Standards: Compliance with NRTL requirements and proper documentation is vital for the acceptance and certification of DER devices.
5. Continued Education and Engagement: Ongoing education and active participation in initiatives led by organizations like the SunSpec Alliance are key to staying informed and compliant with evolving standards in the energy sector.