SunSpec CSIP 3.0 Webinar Recap
SunSpec leadership provided an in-depth look at the history, current activities, and future developments of the Common Smart Inverter Profile (CSIP). They explained that CSIP originated from a 2017 ruling by the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC), requiring investor-owned utilities to reference a common California IEEE 2030.5 implementation guide, which became the Common Smart Inverter Profile.
This profile standardizes the behavior of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) when connected to utility operators. CSIP has significantly evolved, with version 2.1 widely adopted. Internationally, Australia implemented CSIP-AUS as their national standard, and several other US states, including Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Hawaii, incorporated CSIP into their regulations, highlighting the need for an update to maintain compatibility and integrate lessons learned globally.
Updating to CSIP 3.0 is crucial due to the 2023 revisions in IEEE 2030.5, which incorporate field experiences to keep the profile relevant and effective. This update aims to align CSIP with national and international standards, prevent outdated technology, and ensure interoperability. It will also address compatibility with the nationwide rollout of IEEE 1547 and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration standards developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
SunSpec leadership highlighted the success of the SunSpec IEEE 2030.5 CSIP certification program, with 52 companies completing 77 certifications, ensuring consistent behavior across devices. SunSpec also established a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to support 2030.5 networks, providing free test certificates for manufacturers and testers. The webinar concluded with a call to action for participants to join the 2030.5 workgroup meeting sprint to review an upcoming utility advice letter regarding CSIP 3.0. SunSpec aims to lead the CSIP update initiative, ensuring it remains open and royalty-free on a timely basis. The first meeting is scheduled for the following Wednesday June 26th and Members of the Alliance can sign up in the Member portal. Contact membership@sunspec.org for additional information on how to get involved!
Key Takeaways:
- CSIP Evolution: CSIP, originating from a 2017 CPUC ruling, has become a crucial standard for DER interoperability.
- Global Adoption: CSIP is used internationally, with Australia setting a precedent for national standards and several US states adopting it.
- Need for Update: The 2023 IEEE 2030.5 revisions necessitate updating CSIP to ensure relevance and interoperability.
- Successful Certification Program: SunSpec’s certification program has facilitated widespread CSIP compliance, supported by a robust PKI.
Utility Advice Letter & Workgroup Sprint: Participants are encouraged to join the workgroup sprint to review the upcoming CA IOU advice letter and contribute to the CSIP 3.0 update.
