Overview
IEC TS 63189-1:2023 - "Virtual power plants - Part 1: Architecture and functional requirements" defines the architecture, terminology and functional requirements for virtual power plants (VPPs). The Technical Specification addresses how dispersed energy resources are aggregated, monitored, scheduled and controlled to provide energy, ancillary services and market participation. It also recognizes the role of supporting systems such as regional energy meteorology forecasting, site energy management, SCADA and communications and notes that local regulation and electricity market models affect VPP operation.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Terms and definitions for VPP, DER, controllable loads, microgrids, energy storage systems and local control units (LCUs).
- System composition: components covered include power generation units, controllable loads, energy storage, microgrids and VMS (listed system element).
- Control modes: requirements for both centralized and decentralized control architectures (including decentralized with centralized assessment and decentralized with local assessment).
- Status monitoring & communications: data collection, status monitoring, interface and communication specification needs for reliable VPP operation.
- Forecasting: functional requirements for power generation and controllable load forecasting to enable scheduling and optimization.
- Aggregation & optimization: aggregation methods, coordinated optimization of distributed energy resources (DER) and schedule development for generation and consumption.
- Energy storage & load management: control and management requirements for energy storage devices and controllable loads.
- Market transactions & ancillary services: functional capability to participate in electricity markets, submit bids and aggregate ancillary services.
- Data analysis: requirements for data collection, analysis and status monitoring to support operation and market participation.
Applications and who uses this standard
IEC TS 63189-1:2023 is practical for:
- VPP operators and DER aggregators - to design compliant VPP architectures and operational processes.
- Utilities and distribution system operators (DSOs) - to assess integration of aggregated DER and market interactions.
- System integrators and SCADA/EMS vendors - to implement communication, monitoring and control interfaces.
- Manufacturers of inverters, energy storage and LCU devices - to ensure interoperability with VPP requirements.
- Regulators and market designers - to understand requirements for VPP participation in electricity markets and ancillary service provision.
- Researchers and consultants - as a reference for VPP functional design and evaluation.
Related standards
Normative references cited in the specification include standards relevant to communication, security and interoperability:
IEC TS 63189-1 is a foundational document for organizations building or integrating VPP solutions, helping ensure consistent architecture, reliable control and clear market-facing functionality.