Core Viewpoint - Carrier Global Corporation has initiated field trials for battery-enabled HVAC systems aimed at enhancing grid resilience and integrating renewable energy sources [1][2]. Group 1: Company Initiatives - Carrier is testing its first battery-enabled HVAC systems in homes to validate their performance and contribution to grid stability [2][3]. - The company is collaborating with utilities and EPRI to explore the role of homes as flexible Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) in response to the aging U.S. power grid and increasing energy demands [2][3]. Group 2: Technology and Impact - The next-generation HVAC system combines efficient variable-speed heat pumps with battery storage to shift energy use from peak to off-peak periods, thereby enhancing grid flexibility and resilience [3][4]. - With approximately 30 million Carrier HVAC units installed in North American homes, representing over 100 GW of potential flexible demand, the company sees significant opportunities for utilities to manage electricity demand effectively [4][5]. Group 3: Future Outlook - The trials are positioned as a demonstration of Carrier's commitment to developing a more resilient and intelligent grid, showcasing that smart home energy solutions are currently being implemented [5].

Core Insights - Oracle has introduced new features in its Utilities Network Management System (NMS) to enhance the management of distributed energy resources (DERs) and improve grid reliability [1][6] - The NMS is utilized by six of the top ten U.S. utilities, serving over 61 million customers, and offers a unified model for optimizing grid performance and integrating renewable energy [2] DER Capabilities - The new features in the Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS) module enhance grid event management and include a 7-day forecast algorithm for better event planning [3][4] - Oracle's DERMS platform has evolved to support both grid-connected energy resources and battery energy storage systems (BESS), providing real-time data for resource optimization [4] Integrated Capabilities - The Flex SCADA module enhances the NMS platform by enabling the deployment and monitoring of field devices, with a modernized calculation engine for real-time data adjustments [5] - New features in the NMS include DER orchestration for optimizing customer-owned DERs and improved outage management capabilities to enhance safety and efficiency [6][9] Operational Efficiency - The updated NMS Flex Operations browser client allows for quick scaling and onboarding of personnel, improving situational awareness during major incidents [9] - New functionalities for power restoration enable better fault response and service restoration capabilities within substations [9]