Scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, working with the University of Tennessee, created a low-cost, secure sensing device that provides unprecedented real-time visibility into how the electric grid operates. Known as the Universal GridEdge Analyzer, the technology recently earned an R&D 100 Award, recognizing it as one of the world’s leading inventions.
The small-form analyzer captures minute fluctuations in voltage and current as waveform data, then rapidly compresses, encrypts, and transmits the information to centralized servers. Capable of handling 60,000 measurements per second—about 500 times the rate of earlier systems—it can detect split-second responses from the power electronics that are essential to operating the modern grid.
“Unlike conventional centralized power plants, data centers and distributed energy resources with batteries rely on power electronics to connect to the grid,” explained Yilu Liu, lead researcher and UT–ORNL Governor’s Chair for Power Electronics. “These components switch extremely fast, and their rapid behavior can affect overall grid stability. By monitoring these dynamics, we can strengthen future grid operations and ensure reliable electricity for everyone.”
Advancing Grid Monitoring
The technology builds on UT’s long-established grid frequency monitoring system, FNET/GridEye. This network, with 200 sensors across the U.S. and roughly 100 more worldwide, gathers and transmits aggregated data to provide a broad view of grid activity. The new device, however, delivers more detailed information at higher speeds, capturing events that previous technology might have missed. Designed for versatility, it can be integrated into power electronics, mounted on distribution lines, or even plugged into a standard wall outlet.
Utilities in states like Hawaii and Texas are using the analyzer to study how clusters of power electronics interact with the grid. For instance, at AI data centers, small voltage fluctuations can trigger switches to backup power, requiring quick responses to manage the energy load. The device helps operators anticipate these situations and maintain stable grid operations.
Other ORNL contributors to the project include Bruce Warmack and Ori Wu, as well as former team members Ben LaRiviere and Lingwei Zahn.
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