Distributed generation (including solar photovoltaic, wind, small hydro, landfill gas, engine-gensets, fuel cells, and cogeneration) is being deployed at an increasing pace, energy storage is moving toward viability, electric vehicles introduce a huge variable into planning equations, microgrids and intentional islands are becoming increasingly common and complex, and a wide array of “smart grid” and distribution system automation technologies are entering the marketplace. Utility engineers are often faced with having to make decisions on these technologies without feeling as though they have the background information they need,

and of course they cannot use the grid as an experiment. Equipment manufacturers often face a similar dilemma in that they must ensure that their technologies have only the desired impacts on customers and the system, that any adverse consequences are mitigated, and that utilities and customers are properly educated on the new technology. Northern Plains Power Technologies (NPPT) helps utilities and equipment manufacturers navigate this marketplace by providing high-quality engineering services in distributed generation, microgrids (including planning, control and protection), and distribution automation. NPPT uses

powerful computer tools and highly detailed models of physical systems to provide a “virtual laboratory” from which utility engineers and equipment manufacturers can gain answers, and customers can gain education. When it comes time to deploy systems, NPPT can develop and test embedded code in a number of platforms, and can assist in commissioning, testing and monitoring of hardware and systems. Through a combination of competent engineering and creative thought, and in collaboration with clients everywhere, NPPT is Moving Power Forward.