Power Systems Operations and Controls
NLR develops methods for real-time operation and control of power systems at various scales to support a more reliable and efficient power grid.
Ubiquitous digital connectivity, improved visibility, and artificial intelligence have opened new horizons for power systems operations. NLR develops and validates advanced control algorithms, AI-assisted operations technologies, and new system configurations to optimize control room functions and bulk system planning. Through partnerships with energy providers and vendors, NLR helps reduce system inefficiencies and risks and unlock new cost-saving opportunities for utilities and customers.
Capabilities
Advanced Distribution Management Systems
NLR's advanced distribution management system (ADMS) research helps utilities meet customer expectations of reliability, power quality, renewable energy use, data security, and resilience to natural disasters and other threats.
Artificial Intelligence
NLR researchers are examining ways to use generative artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the power grid by providing decision support and predictive planning and control.
Autonomous Energy Systems
Autonomous energy systems (AES) provide intelligent and robust solutions for operating highly electrified, heterogeneous energy systems.
Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems
NLR is leading research efforts on distributed energy resource management systems so utilities can efficiently manage consumer electricity demand.
Distributed Optimization and Control
NLR is working to advance foundational science and translate advances in distributed optimization and control into breakthrough approaches for integrating distributed infrastructures into our energy systems.
Home and Building Energy Management Systems
NLR researchers are developing tools to understand the impact of changes in home and building energy use and how building assets and energy management systems can provide value to the grid.
Microgrid Controls
Our researchers evaluate in-house-developed controls and partner-developed microgrid components using software modeling and hardware-in-the-loop evaluation platforms.
Transmission-Level Operations
NLR works at the leading edge of transmission operations, helping utilities and operators overcome instabilities, oscillations, and dynamics arising from a mix of generation types.
Utility and Grid Operator Power System Resources
NLR provides resources to support utility and grid operators in modernizing systems and planning for major industry challenges and opportunities.
2024 Total Solar Eclipse Grid Impact Study
Learn about the results of NLR's grid impact analysis of the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.
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Last Updated Jan. 12, 2026