PNNL

We focus on addressing the challenges facing today’s power industry—planning, operating, and protecting electric grids for enhanced resiliency, reliability, and security. Key research areas include grid architecture, transmission and distribution system analysis and innovation, advanced data analytics, renewable energy integration, energy storage, cybersecurity, and grid-related emergency response.

For more than a decade, we have led the world in developing and applying transactive systems that combine economics and controls to optimize and integrate distributed energy resources. Our expertise in grid simulation and analytics enables high‑performance grid monitoring and control at unprecedented speeds. Our capabilities in control theory, application, and testbeds support the development of distributed controls. Our leadership in phasor measurement technologies enables greater grid visibility and situational awareness.

Specialized facilities and testbeds enhance collaboration with the public and private sectors. A one-of-a-kind, utility-grade control center infrastructure—known as the Electricity Infrastructure Operations Center—supports research in grid modernization, along with the largest national repository of grid data and models. Other resources include the Electricity Infrastructure Cybersecurity and Resilience Center the Power Networking, Equipment, and Technology Testbed (powerNET) testbed, and several laboratories that support energy storage research and development.  

We manage these capabilities for the Department of Energy's Offices of Electricity, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, and Advanced Scientific Computing Research; the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy; the Department of Homeland Security; the Department of Defense; the Department of State; and industry users.