BPL Global, Ltd. has collaborated with Jersey Central Power and Light (JCP&L), a subsidiary of Akron, Ohio-based FirstEnergy Corp., to deploy an Integrated Distributed Energy Resource (DER) management system to demonstrate energy efficiency and reliability as well as customer satisfaction in JCP&L's service area.

The project combines JCP&L distribution design and operations expertise with BPLG software solutions and device technology. The Integrated DER project will deliver a projected 8 MW of direct load control consisting of 5 MW from about 3,500 residential customers and 3 MW from 30 to 90 commercial and industrial customers. This smart grid technology will support JCP&L's efforts to coordinate the management of distributed generation, renewables, energy storage and demand management.

The technology allows real-time management of the energy delivery system based on the changing conditions of the distribution network. The system can be configured to respond differently based on the condition of the grid, whether operations are normal, or under high load. Using the DER management solution can result in energy, operational, capital and environmental efficiencies that have the potential to create significant value for electric customers and utilities.

"This is a pivotal, enabling technology fundamental to transformation of the intelligent grid," said Keith Schaefer, BPLG's CEO. "JCP&L's commitment to innovation and vision of the future grid have provided invaluable direction to the development of our groundbreaking solution."

"The Integrated Distributed Energy Resource Management Pilot will demonstrate the value and viability of targeted peak load management as a source of system reliability and energy efficiency for our distribution circuits," said Steve Morgan, president, JCP&L. "The Pilot program incorporates smart grid technology and is also consistent with demonstrating alternative means of cost-effectively addressing critical goals related to demand response in the New Jersey Energy Master Plan."

This initiative is a co-development effort between BPLG and JCP&L to demonstrate an integrated approach to demand management and grid efficiency.