Enhancing Behind-the-Meter Visibility: Integrating Bolt-On Sensors for Improved Disaggregation Algorithm Accuracy and Cost-Efficiency

Limited insight into low-voltage grids and behind-the-Meter (BTM) resources presents a notable obstacle to the integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) into distribution systems. One contributing factor is the high cost of sensors. Utilizing the dataset measured by the distributed low-cost sensors could enhance visibility into behind-the-Meter (BTM) PV generation. This paper introduces the concept of bolt-on sensors and demonstrates, using a power hardware-in-the-loop testbed, how real-time sensor data can be processed into actionable measurements within the bolt-on sensor interface. It presents case studies where the bolt-on sensor provides detailed behind-the-Meter (BTM) information to utility providers, thereby improving capabilities at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC) for Photovoltaic (PV) and Distributed Energy Resources (DER). Additionally, it explores a comparison between Renewable Energy Source (RES) power generation results obtained from bolt-on sensors and those derived from a BTM estimation algorithm. This analysis aims to illustrate how bolt-on sensors can significantly improve algorithm accuracy and, when integrated with existing methods, offer a more cost-effective and reliable BTM visibility solution.