DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES (DER) INTEGRATION

MANAGEMENT OF DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES (DER)

In addition to being a network operator, TNB actively takes on the role of a facilitator in energy integration and an enabler of customer empowerment. This proactive approach aligns with TNB's energy management vision and the evolving landscape of a future grid, where the seamless integration of distributed energy resources (DER) is essential. These DER sources, including solar photovoltaic, biomass, biogas, and small hydro, must seamlessly connect to the distribution network to ensure the efficient distribution of the energy they contribute to the system.

Guidelines and regulations are pivotal in governing the deployment and management of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) in Malaysia. They serve to promote DER growth, uphold safety and reliability, and optimize the grid's efficiency. Moreover, these regulations establish a well-defined framework that empowers stakeholders—ranging from consumers and businesses to utilities and policymakers—to navigate the evolving DER landscape effectively.

TNB collaborates closely with relevant authorities to craft comprehensive guidelines that balance network safety and reliability with the facilitation of increased DER integration. This collaborative effort not only guarantees the operational integrity of the network but also promotes the smooth adoption and integration of DER, thereby fostering a more sustainable and resilient energy ecosystem.

The guidelines are meticulously structured to correspond to specific schemes, each tailored to address unique aspects and requirements within the energy sector. This categorization provides users with an organized and tailored approach, making it easier to access and understand the specific recommendations, prerequisites, and best practices associated with each scheme. You can access these guidelines through the following links:

Table 1: Guidelines Links

These comprehensive guidelines support TNB's mission to facilitate and empower the integration of DER within the energy landscape.

DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES (DER) FACILITATION THROUGH MYTNB

TNB has embarked on a proactive and customer-centric journey, providing complimentary consultation services through the highly accessible myTNB web portal. This platform is thoughtfully engineered to empower customers who are enthusiastic about embracing rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, helping them make well-informed decisions. Our outreach initiative is driven by a dedicated mission to equip customers with invaluable insights and knowledge, fostering their understanding of the intricacies surrounding Renewable Energy (RE) systems installation.

The myTNB web portal stands as an invaluable resource for our customers, offering a wealth of information and services aimed at empowering them in their journey towards adopting Renewable Energy (RE) solutions. Within this user-friendly platform, customers can explore the following aspects of RE:

Figure 1: myTNB Web Portal

Table 1: Aspects of RE that are available at MyTNB web Portal

Through the myTNB web portal, TNB's commitment to providing comprehensive resources and consultation services becomes evident. This commitment ensures that our customers are not only well-informed but also fully equipped to make educated decisions regarding their RE installation projects. In essence, we empower our customers to play an active role in the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions.

Figure 2: Renewable Energy (RE) services in the MyTNB Portal

For DER applicants, the journey towards approval is made straightforward and efficient, guided by a clear four-step process:

• Step 1: Define Your Renewable Energy Scheme - Select the most suitable connection process based on your chosen scheme.
• Step 2: Identify Technical Study Requirements and Apply Online If Necessary - If your connection application necessitates a technical study, you can seamlessly submit your application through the MyTNB Portal. This portal simplifies the process, allowing you to submit your request, make payments, and access completed reports with ease.
• Step 3: Obtain Approval from the Relevant Authority - Secure the necessary approval from the relevant authority in accordance with your chosen scheme.
• Step 4: Execute a Power Purchase Agreement or Complete Registration - Once approval is granted, customers proceed to enter into a power purchase agreement outlining the ongoing connection of their facility to our distribution system. For self-consumption purposes, registration is the sole requirement.

With the myTNB web portal and this structured four-step process, TNB strives to ensure that our customers have the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the path to cleaner and more sustainable energy with confidence and ease. To explore the myTNB web portal platform, click here.

TECHNICAL STUDY ASSESSMENT FACILITATION (FEASIBILITY STUDY)

The technical study assessment, often referred to as a feasibility study, plays a crucial role in the integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) into the electrical grid. Its primary objectives are to ensure safety, reliability, efficiency, and to maximize the economic and environmental advantages of distributed energy resources. To achieve these goals, TNB has established a comprehensive process that engages both consumers and the TNB team, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience.

This process leverages the integration of the myTNB platform with the Green Energy Management System (GEMS), offering several advantages. Applicants can conveniently track and monitor their requests while staying updated on the progress. The integrated system not only improves user experience by providing valuable insights into associated fees and estimated timelines but also guarantees timely communication from TNB regarding the status of their reports.

GEMS operates by notifying the designated Person in Charge (PIC) in line with specific tasks, advancing to the subsequent task once the current one is complete. Upon report finalization, the Service Provider receives both a notification and an email. This setup fosters transparency throughout the process, creating an efficient tracking system that benefits all stakeholders involved.

Figure 1: Process layer and tracking are based on the department involves in GEMS

Customers are able to request for technical study via myTNB portal

Figure 2: Customer application to request for technical study

Figure 3: Customer application for technical study

DISTRIBUTED GENERATION (DG) HOSTING CAPACITY FOR DER 

As TNB strives to achieve its target of attaining a 31% RE penetration target by 2025, in 2022, TNB made a significant leap towards promoting the proactive integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DER). Its a digital platform of Nodal Points as a preliminary guide for new projects to the RE developers. TNB introduced a groundbreaking tool - the Distributed Generation (DG) Hosting Capacity web portal. This innovative platform, equipped with a map-based view, allows potential DER developers and stakeholders to effortlessly identify available DER connection points and assess the associated capacity visibility within the Medium Voltage distribution network for Distributed Generation. The user-friendly DG Hosting Capacity map is made accessible to both internal TNB users and external parties, including RE developers, through a Geographic Information System (GIS) platform.

The first phase of the DG Hosting Capacity Map project was initiated in March 2021 and successfully completed in October 2021. During this initial phase, the system was exclusively designed for internal use within TNB. Subsequently, the project proceeded to its second phase, commencing in November 2021, and reaching completion on June 27, 2022, making it accessible to the public.

Enhanced Initiatives in 2023

In 2023, TNB in collaboration with the Sustainable Energy Development Authority Malaysia (SEDA), embarked on an initiative to streamline the process of connecting to Renewable Energy (RE) sources. A central aspect of this initiative is the release of a comprehensive list outlining the hosting capacity of available substations, termed Nodal Points. These Nodal Points play a pivotal role as reference points for new RE projects looking to connect to TNB's distribution network, specifically at medium voltage levels (33kV and 11kV). They play a crucial role in facilitating connections for projects operating under the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) and Net Energy Metering (NEM) programs (Refer to Figure 1).

Table 1: Nodal points for DG is publicly available in tabular format

Figure 1: SEDA website shows TNB Nodal Points info

The introduction of an advanced and interactive tool, the Distributed Generation (DG) Hosting Capacity Map, represented a significant milestone in mid-2022. Integrated into the Geographic Information System (GIS) platform, it transitioned from a simple list of Nodal Points to a dynamic visual representation on a geographical map, covering the medium voltage network.

The Nodal Points serve as the foundational elements for evaluating the hosting capacity of the TNB distribution grid for prospective renewable energy (RE) connections. Additionally, in mid-2022, TNB introduced a more advanced and interactive analysis tool called the Distributed Generation (DG) Hosting Capacity Map as part of the GIS Distribution Network (GISDN) Project. This DG Hosting Capacity Map is integrated into the Geographic Information System (GIS) platform, which represents a transition from the previous list of Nodal Points to a visual representation on a geographical map, now encompassing the medium voltage network.

This GIS-based platform offers enhanced visibility and facilitates the identification of the nearest potential substation for connecting new RE sources. For instance, it assists in determining which substation has the capacity to accommodate a specific amount of RE development at a given location and time, all while adhering to the existing network conditions and operational criteria. This ensures that critical factors such as safety, fault levels, voltage, power quality, and reliability are not adversely affected by the introduction of new renewable energy resources.

Using the DG Hosting Capacity Map, the public such as renewable energy developers have the ability to pinpoint Nodal Points by entering specific parameters, including the desired capacity in megawatts (MW), the prospective location for their new renewable energy project, the radius from that location, and the type of distributed generation (DG) they plan to employ. In the illustrative scenario, as depicted in Figure 2 and Figure 3, RE developers or members of the public can readily search for and access information regarding the hosting capacity for solar-type DG systems within the boundaries of the Langkawi district or within a 30-kilometer radius of a given coordinate or address, serving as an initial connection point for their proposed DG facility.

Figure 2: The searching functionality of the Hosting Capacity Map by district selection for the public

Figure 3: The searching functionality of the Hosting Capacity Map by coordinate / address for the public users

Benefits of DG Hosting Capacity Map

The DG Hosting Capacity Map offers several advantages:

• Facilitates swift and efficient DG interconnections, aligning with the Malaysian Government's goal to accelerate RE deployment.
• Supports TNB's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, in line with the Government's ambitious targets.
• Addresses environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks related to assets and integrates advanced ESG measures into operations.
• Promises improved financial performance and a substantial return on investment (ROI) through reduced on-site visits and minimized reliance on TNB personnel.
• This initiative enhances data transparency and boosts DG systems' productivity through automated data extraction, processing, and analytics.

To explore the DG Hosting Capacity map for distributed generation via GIS, click here. It is now also accessible through mobile devices.

Figure 4: Winner for Power Energy Awards in Transmission and Distribution Network Project of the Year Category

TNB has also achieved recognition as the winner of Power Energy Awards for Transmission and Distribution Network Project of the Year Category in the ENLIT Asia Conference in November 2023 based on a paper submission entitled “Large-Scale Low Voltage Asset and Network Mapping in Malaysia by Embarking on the Technology of Mobile Mapping System”.

CORPORATE GREEN POWER PROGRAMME (CGPP)

The Corporate Green Power Programme (CGPP) is a forward-looking initiative established by the Government to create an opportunity for business entities to actively participate in the promotion and utilization of renewable energy within their business operations. This program responds to the increasing number of electricity consumers who are committed to achieving their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets. At its core, the CGPP operates as a mechanism for virtual power purchase agreements, effectively harnessing the existing New Enhanced Dispatch Arrangement (NEDA) framework.

Figure 1: Overview of Corporate Green Power Programme framework

One of the primary facets of the CGPP is its role in fostering collaboration between renewable energy producers, particularly in the field of solar power, and corporate consumers who are seeking to enhance their corporate image while actively contributing to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. This symbiotic partnership enables the sale and purchase of renewable energy resources under mutually agreed terms and conditions. Here's how it works:

Facilitation of Solar Power Producers

TNB, through the CGPP, offers free consultation services to all solar power producers who are interested in taking part in the development of solar photovoltaic plants. This service not only provides invaluable guidance but also ensures that these producers have access to the necessary resources and knowledge required for the successful establishment of solar energy generation facilities. They can also view the available quota of renewable energy under this Corporate Green Power Programme.

Virtual Sale and Purchase Agreement

Once the solar power producers are ready to harness their energy resources, the CGPP facilitates a virtual sale and purchase agreement. Under this arrangement, corporate consumers can purchase the renewable energy generated by these solar facilities under predefined terms and conditions. This enables businesses to tap into clean energy sources for their operations, aligning with their sustainability goals.

Enhancing Corporate Image

By participating in the CGPP, corporate consumers enhance their corporate image and reputation as responsible and environmentally conscious entities. The use of renewable energy sources showcases their commitment to sustainability and mitigating the impact of their operations on the environment, which is a fundamental aspect of ESG principles.

Application for Connection

Solar power producers interested in joining the program can obtain the necessary applications through TNB. The application process allows them to choose the most suitable connection options, whether at the distribution or transmission level. This flexibility ensures that a wide range of renewable energy producers can participate, regardless of their scale or specific needs.

Figure 2: Single Buyer Website on CGPP

TNB's Active Involvement

In addition to facilitating this program, TNB actively participates in the CGPP to accelerate the integration of solar-powered generation into the grid system. As part of its commitment to sustainability and promoting renewable energy, TNB has secured a substantial capacity of approximately 135MWp/90MW in solar generation. This capacity includes both wholly-owned facilities (45MWp/30MW) and joint ventures (90MWp/60MW). Upon commissioning, the annual emissions avoidance is estimated at 70,646 tCO2e per year. These endeavours are crucial not only for expanding the solar energy sector but also for encouraging business entities to collaboratively develop renewable energy resources, in line with mutually agreed terms and conditions with corporate consumers. By playing a central role in the CGPP, TNB demonstrates its dedication to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and the responsible use of energy resources.

Ultimately, the CGPP serves as a pivotal program that not only supports businesses in achieving their ESG targets but also propels the growth of renewable energy production, significantly reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious energy landscape.

To view more details of CGPP, visit Single Buyer.

ENERGY STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Utility Scale Battery Energy Storage System

In response to the escalating demand and the goal of reaching the recommended solar penetration limit of 6,036 MW by 2025, TNB is embarking on a significant initiative—the deployment of Utility Scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). This move is not only vital for accommodating the increasing solar capacity but also crucial for ensuring the security, reliability, and stability of the grid.

TNB Grid plans to commence the first Utility Scale BESS installations in 2024 and target completion by 2026. This timeline reflects our commitment to staying ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving energy landscape. This proactive approach aligns seamlessly with the Malaysian Government's commitment to achieving approximately 70% renewable energy capacity by 2050, as outlined in the Malaysia Energy Transition Outlook.

The growing demand for renewable energy, including the development of solar parks and cross-border renewable energy export, underscores the urgency of deploying BESS to meet these energy needs. Utility Scale BESS deployment brings multiple advantages to the grid system. It mitigates frequency stability issues during the loss of conventional generators or solar plants by providing fast frequency response. Additionally, BESS allows for load shifting and peak load shaving, effectively smoothing out fluctuations in solar power output, thus increasing its reliability and predictability.

TNB's recommendation of BESS units, strategically located in areas with sufficient land space and high solar irradiance, positions them to facilitate future BESS framework development. These locations can also utilize additional BESS functions to relieve congestion on existing networks. Furthermore, BESS brings additional benefits such as deferring transmission upgrades, providing spinning reserves, system voltage control, inertia response, and system frequency regulation. These functions enhance grid flexibility and stability, potentially translating to cost savings in the long term.

TNB’s proactive approach to deploying Utility Scale BESS in the near future demonstrates our commitment to secure and reliable renewable energy integration. It not only ensures grid stability but also aligns with future RE Zone frameworks, optimizing investments for a sustainable, secure, and cost-effective energy future in Malaysia.

Community Energy Storage Solutions (CESS)

In line with TNB vision of developing the Smart Utility and enabling the Government’s National Energy Transition Roadmap agenda, three (3) Community Energy Storage System (CESS) projects were successfully implemented using battery (Lithium Ion) storage technology. The aim is to harness the use of battery storage system towards maximizing customer’s green energy generation while maintaining the network performance and stability. The CESS system installed also provides functions such as reducing transformers peak loads and power limiting/smoothing for power fluctuation mitigations. A CESS Business Model was also developed as part of the research project that provides TNB for potential capability building in the energy storage area.

ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - SMART ENERGY MANAGEMENT INFRASTRUCTURE (SEMI)

The Smart Energy Management Infrastructure (SEMI) project assumes a pivotal role in the advancement of TNB's dedication to achieving Malaysia's Energy Transition objectives. With its central objective focused on serving as an Energy Transition Facilitator within the Distribution Network (DN), SEMI is committed to cultivating comprehensive proficiencies within the two core domains of the DN Smart Utility: Energy Management and Customer Empowerment.

SEMI epitomizes an innovative system, intricately designed to elevate the effectiveness and intelligence of energy distribution. By amalgamating a diverse array of technologies and capabilities, SEMI extends its influence not only to the Distribution Network (DN) but also actively engages customers and pertinent stakeholders in the energy transition process. It provides tangible advantages, including heightened reliability, cost-efficiency, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability.

Illustrated in Figure 1, SEMI functions as an advanced energy management system, entrusted with the tasks of receiving, scrutinizing, and processing data sourced from Distributed Energy Resources (DER) visibility enablers. Moreover, it delivers invaluable insights and foresight concerning DER connectivity, generation, and availability. This comprehensive process includes a meticulous evaluation of the DN's system network, ensuring the highest degree of system stability and reliability.

Figure 1: SEMI functionalities in supporting DER Planning & Operations

Some of initial SEMI functionalities explained:

1. DER Visibility Management

Under the umbrella of DER Visibility Management, SEMI serves as a singular platform that offers comprehensive visibility of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) seamlessly connected to the distribution network. This encompasses all relevant information, including the connected feeder, precise location, energy generation and load profiles, and an aggregated perspective of DER profiles. This wealth of information is made accessible through a user-friendly dashboard and a convenient topology view.

Additionally, SEMI incorporates a Renewable Energy (RE) registration portal, a valuable tool to streamline the often intricate RE registration process. This portal ensures the automated capture of data for new DER installations, facilitating a more efficient and organized approach.

2. DER Network Planning

To bolster network planning, SEMI provides a suite of essential tools that enable simulation for assessing and forecasting the impact of DERs. This includes Power Quality (PQ) simulations, growth and hosting capacity analyses, and the seamless integration of DERs into system planning. The incorporation of locational DER hotspot analysis further enhances the planning process, offering a more precise understanding of where DERs will have the greatest influence. Under this capability, the accessibility of DER connection procedure is managed together with capacity hosting map.

3. DER Integration & Aggregation Management

At the core of our smart energy management infrastructure, the DER integration component stands as a pivotal foundation, drawing inspiration from globally successful models such as the Active Network Management (ANM) project in UKPN. Fuelled by the integration of advanced algorithms and Artificial Intelligence, SEMI's sophisticated system operates in near real-time, orchestrating the optimal generation, distribution, and consumption of energy.

This innovative system expertly navigates the complexities of modern energy management, effectively balancing the energy flow (intermittency) of renewable energy sources, adapting to shifting demand patterns, and dynamically orchestrating energy flows. The outcome is a substantial reduction in energy wastage and the maximization of efficiency. Moreover, SEMI opens the door to dynamic hosting capacity, enabling a Flexible Interconnection Scheme, providing customers with a diverse range of options, and actively fostering the expansion of Renewable Energy (RE). This commitment to innovation extends to addressing grid congestion, with SEMI introducing trials for Demand & Supply Side Flexibility, ensuring the harmony and efficiency of the energy network.

The combined benefits of these features are profound:

• Enhanced Grid Stability: Through its dynamic approach to supply and demand, DER integration significantly minimizes grid instability and power fluctuations.
• Increased Utilization of Renewable Energy: By seamlessly optimizing the incorporation of renewable sources like solar PV, DER ensures a higher penetration of clean energy into the grid. This not only promotes sustainability but also advances our collective transition towards a greener energy landscape.

4. DN Customer Self-Service Portal & ET Open Data Portal

SEMI presents a Customer Self-Service Portal for DN customers. This portal is designed to empower customers by providing access to DN-related service information, including invaluable Energy Insights. Customers can delve into details related to optimal Time of Use (TOU) and monitor the performance of their connected DERs.

Furthermore, SEMI contributes to the broader energy ecosystem through the Energy Transition Open Data Portal. This initiative aims to share Energy Transition-related data with a wide array of stakeholders, including internal users, local governments, Smart City developers, businesses, consumers, and the energy industry.

5. EV & Energy Storage Management

SEMI is committed to providing visibility within the Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, offering insights into charger and storage locations, charging patterns, and EV hotspots. With EV growth forecasting and performance analysis, SEMI ensures a seamless and reliable supply for EV chargers. It also contributes to optimal Time of Use (TOU) for charging, benefiting both customers and the overall energy grid.

6. Current & Future Offerings for Planners & Operations

For DER planners and operations, our advanced system offers a comprehensive suite of tools and features that streamline various activities. The Energy Integration Platform (EIP) serves as a central hub, consolidating data sources and providing centralized visibility, monitoring, and planning capabilities for DER assets at all levels. Additionally, our DER registration capability simplifies the RE registration process, ensuring the capture and streamlining of vital information. To mitigate gaps in visibility regarding unregistered DER such as Solar PV and EV chargers, we employ LV Analytics.

Figure 2: SEMI Key Functions

One of our standout features is the near real-time monitoring of load and generation within localized communities or areas. This empowers energy management systems and enhances the decision-making process. Furthermore, we provide planning tools that enable network planning, offering capabilities for DER impact assessment, PQ simulation, growth and hosting capacity analysis, and locational DER hotspot analysis. These tools cater to a variety of stakeholders:

• For TNB DN planners, this means easier and faster planning, ensuring that every step of the process is as efficient as possible.
• Head of Zone (HOZA) and operation teams benefit from full visibility of all connected Solar PV up to the LV level, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the system's performance.
• Customers can expect optimal DER performance and supply quality, providing a superior experience.

Incorporating these tools into your DER planning and operations processes ensures smoother and more informed decision-making, enhancing the efficiency and quality of your operations while benefiting a wide range of stakeholders.

Figure 3: Energy Integration Platform (EIP)

Figure 4: EIP Dashboard for CESS monitoring

TNB DN has also achieved recognition through SEMI project as ‘Energy Advocate of the Year” award winner in the ENLIT Asia event in Bangkok in September 2022 for Uplifting TNB Distribution Network towards Energy Transition.

Figure 5: SEMI Award – Energy Advocate of the Year Award 2022

Besides that, TNB DN also won the Gold Award for "Energy Integrated Platform (EIP) as an enabler towards Energy Transition of TNB Distribution Network" through Asian Power Award 2023 under category Transmission & Distribution Project of The Year.

Figure 6: SEMI recognition as Energy integration Pioneer in Southeast Asia

Another recognition achieved by SEMI is being Energy integration Pioneer in Southeast Asia from State Grid Electric Power Research Institute in CEPSI 2023. 

Figure 7: SEMI Award – Asian Power Awards 2023

TNB DN’S DERMS MONITORING CAPABILITIES OF MICROGRID IN ELMINA TOWNSHIP

As Malaysia progresses towards a sustainable energy future outlined in the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), it embarks on a transformative journey with the 10 Catalyst Flagship Projects. These projects signify a crucial including achieving 70% renewable energy, attaining net-zero emissions by 2050, establishing the region as an RE hub, and ensuring zero solar curtailment. Aligned with the NETR, Malaysia commits to transitioning towards renewable energy sources, with a focus on solar power. This shift towards 70% RE and net-zero emissions represents a significant move towards cleaner and more sustainable energy production, positioning Malaysia as a leader in renewable energy innovation in Southeast Asia.

A critical aspect of Malaysia's energy transition involves the readiness of TNB DN supply systems to accommodate a higher levels of renewable energy. Traditionally, TNB's distribution system operated with one-way supply from the grid to consumers. However, the rise of distributed energy resources (DERs) signals a shift. The future grid envisions bidirectional flow, allowing energy generated from sources like rooftop solar panels to integrate, store, and distribute locally. This evolution fosters microgrids, ensuring communities access resilient, sustainable energy, reducing reliance on centralized grids. Storing surplus solar energy enhances resilience against fluctuating demands and grid disruptions, bolstering energy security, particularly during peak times or emergencies. Moreover, local energy storage maximizes renewable energy potential, cutting reliance on fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions, and minimizing transmission losses, enhancing distribution efficiency, and driving cost savings for consumers and utilities. Overall, integrating solar rooftops and storage enhances sustainability, empowering communities with energy autonomy, resilience, and cost-effectiveness.

Despite the promise of numerous benefits from integrating renewable energy, technical challenges hinder its greater adoption at the community level. Technical and economical issues such as voltage limit violations, increased fault levels, heightened network losses, and line loading, along with energy curtailment due to reverse power flows, pose significant obstacles. Voltage limit breaches can lead to equipment malfunctions and safety hazards. Similarly, integrating renewable energy can escalate fault currents, risking damage and extended outages. Moreover, higher integration can amplify network losses and line loading, impacting grid efficiency. Energy curtailment, caused by surplus energy unable to be absorbed due to distribution capacity limits, undermines economic viability and savings for prosumers.

The expansion of residential rooftop solar is vital to Malaysia's renewable energy strategy, aiming to reach 10,000 houses in five years, being a pressing need distribution network optimization to handle the increased influx of DERs.

To address challenges and unlock full potential of renewable energy integration in Malaysia, innovative solutions and investments in robust grid modernization infrastructure upgrades are essential. A pioneering initiative by TNB's Distribution Network through it’s Smart Utility Program, developed Malaysia's first interconnected Smart Utility Infrastructure, aims to encourage the adoption of DERs, enhancing local energy generation and consumption. Leading this effort is Elmina Ilham Residence in Shah Alam, exemplifying sustainable living by seamlessly integrating technology, sustainability, and green energy. With 513 houses equipped with solar 2kW capacity under Net Energy Metering (NEM), alongside an additional 6kW for 223 houses through rooftop leasing, exporting excess energy to the grid, the residence demonstrates a strong commitment to renewable energy adoption. This holistic approach is supported by End-to-End Smart Utility Infrastructure deployment comprising Community Energy Storage Solutions (CESS), Voltage Regulated Distribution Transformers (VRDT), Online Feeder Pillars (OFP), Distribution Intelligence Switch (DIS), SCADA-Distribution Automation(DA), and Smart Meters, all integrated through Energy Integration Platform(EIP); an Energy Management Platform. 

Figure 1: Offerings & Benefits of TNB DN’s Smart Community Infrastructure (Microgrids)

In illustration of this smart community energy system, electricity is supplied from the grid to users through transformers, online feeder pillars, LV cables, and AMI meters. During peak solar hours, surplus energy generated from rooftop solar flows to nearby users and excess energy is stored in the CESS, ensuring efficient utilization. With lower load than generation, voltage may rise allowing VRDT to regulate voltage into an allowable limit. During low sunlight, stored energy from CESS is redistributed to users, supplementing grid supply when demand rises. At night, when RE supply is unavailable, the system seamlessly switches to full grid supply, automatically adjusting voltage levels with the VRDT. These functionalities operate automatically and interoperate, facilitated by DIS and IoT technology, enabling real-time monitoring through EIP, ensuring efficient energy management.

Figure 2: Online Feeder Pillar, Voltage Regulated Distribution Transformer & DIS

Distribution Network Smart Utility’s Smart Community Infrastructure, or microgrids, offers a promising solution to challenges posed by increased renewable energy integration, particularly within local communities. Implementing smart utility infrastructure offers various benefits, including access to clean energy, reduced reliance on fossil fuels, enhanced efficiency, lower emissions, and increased savings. TNB is spearheading this effort by embracing smart technologies, laying the foundation for a sustainable and resilient energy future in Malaysia. With the motto "PRODUCE LOCALLY, USE LOCALLY" and a commitment to fostering an energy-sharing community, TNB aims to lead Malaysia towards a brighter and sustainable future for generations to come. 

Figure 3: The commissioning of TNB DN’s Microgrid in Elmina

Figure 4: TNB DN’s Smart Community Infrastructure (Microgrids) Scenario & Ecosystem