By Jahangir Khan and Branislav Djokic

The IEEE PES Region 7 Chapters organized the Second Canadian Grid Modernization Workshop on Nov. 29-30, 2018 at National Research Council (NRC) Canada in Ottawa. This is a continuation of the first workshop held in Vancouver in 2017. This two-day event was organized jointly by the PES, Hydro Ottawa and NRC. At the NRC Montreal Road campus over 60 engineers and executives gathered from ten Canadian and one US electric utilities, plus three manufactures. On Nov. 29, guests participated in the Workshop that featured 13 presentations on various grid modernization technologies, trends and initiatives. There was one panel session on post disaster recovery. On Nov. 30, the utility and manufacturers’ representatives participated in an Executive Meeting to discuss grid modernization issues and associated technological and human needs. On the same day, guided tours were held at the NRC Heating and Cogeneration Plant, Canadian Centre for Housing Technology (CCHT), and High Voltage Lab.

The gathering provided an opportunity for the utilities to discuss and share experiences and best practices in grid modernization, post disaster recovery from extreme weather events, and challenges and opportunities arising from the increasing penetration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) in the distribution network – mainly wind, solar, and battery storage installed in smart buildings. In addition, it was an excellent networking opportunity for all participants.

This event is broadly driven by the IEEE PES Corporate Engagement Initiative. The 3^rd workshop is being planned – to be held in summer/fall of 2019 in Alberta, Canada.