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NASA NTRS2022

Artemis, Gateway, the Return to the Moon and Forward to Mars for Heliophysics

Over a 100 years ago we humans first landed on Antarctica. At the time we could not have imagined the heliophysics scientific gains that would be got from this continent. Sixty-five years ago we had the first international geophysical year aimed at deployment of instrumentation across this southern most continent and around the globe in recognition of the potential advancements from this integrated system of measurements. This potential has been realized and continues to grow as Antarctica returns science results across most disciplines, inspires artists and athletes, and has touched the lives of many through these gains. Today we are on the precipice of a future new Antarctica with the launch of Artemis 1 and plans for the return of humans to the lunar surface and human exploration to Mars. Heliophysics and space weather are necessary components for the success of these dreams and will benefit greatly from the fundamental science exploration that Artemis and mission to Mars will enable. Within this paper we will discuss the ways in which Artemis and the mission to Mars will benefit Heliophysics and space weather and end with recommendations for steps we see needed to actualize these dreams.

Alexa J Halford↗

NASA NTRS2022

Artemis, Gateway, the Return to the Moon and Forward to Mars for Heliophysics

Alexa Halford↗

DOE OSTI2013

NATIONAL GEOTHERMAL DATA SYSTEM: AN EXEMPLAR OF OPEN ACCESS TO DATA

The formal launch of National Geothermal Data System (NGDS – www.geothermaldata.org) in 2014 will provide open access to technical geothermal-relevant data from all of the Department of Energy- sponsored geothermal development and research projects and geologic data from all 50 states. By making data easily discoverable and accessible this system will open new exploration opportunities and shorten project development. The prototype data system currently includes multiple data nodes, and nationwide data online and available to the public, indexed through a single catalog under construction at http://search.geothermaldata.org. Data from state geological surveys and partners includes more than 5 million records online, including 1.48 million well headers (oil and gas, water, geothermal), 732,000 well logs, and 314,000 borehole temperatures and is growing rapidly. There are over 250 Web services and another 138 WMS (Web Map Services) registered in the system as of August, 2013. Additional data record is being added by companion projects run by Boise State University, Southern Methodist University, and the USGS. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory is managing the Geothermal Data Repository, an NGDS node that will be a clearinghouse for data from hundreds of DOE-funded geothermal projects. NGDS is built on the US Geoscience Information Network (USGIN) data integration framework, which is a joint undertaking of the USGS and the Association of American State Geologists (AASG). NGDS is fully compliant with the White House Executive Order of May 2013, requiring all federal agencies to make their data holdings publicly accessible online in open source, interoperable formats with common core and extensible metadata. The National Geothermal Data System is being designed, built, deployed, and populated primarily with grants from the US Department of Energy, Geothermal Technologies Office. To keep this operational system sustainable after the original implementation will require four core elements: continued serving of data and applications by providers; maintenance of system operations; a governance structure; and an effective business model. Each of these presents a number of challenges currently under consideration.

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY↗

DOE OSTI2023

Deciphering phase evolution in complex metal oxide thin films via high-throughput materials synthesis and characterization

Discovery of structure-property relationships in thin film alloys of complex metal oxides enabled by high-throughput materials synthesis and characterization facilities is demonstrated here with a case-study. In this study, thin films of binary transition metal oxides (Ti–Zn) are prepared by pulsed laser deposition with continuously varying Ti:Zn ratio, creating combinatorial samples for exploration of the properties of this material family. The atomic structure and electronic properties are probed by spatially resolved techniques including x-ray absorption near edge structures (XANES) and x-ray fluorescence (XRF) at the Ti and Zn K-edge, x-ray diffraction, and spectroscopic ellipsometry. The observed properties as a function of Ti:Zn ratio are resolved into mixtures of five distinguishable phases by deploying multivariate curve resolution analysis on the XANES spectral series, under constraints set by results from the other characterization techniques. First-principles computations based on density function theory connect the observed properties of each distinct phase with structural and spectral characteristics of crystalline polymorphs of Ti–Zn oxide. Continuous tuning of the optical absorption edge as a function of Ti:Zn ratio, including the unusual observation of negative optical bowing, exemplifies a functional property of the film correlated to the phase evolution.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

NASA NTRS1982

Study of certain tether safety issues. Continuation of investigation of electrodynamic stabilization and control of long orbiting tethers, volume 1

The behavior of long tethers (10-100 km) in space are addressed under two failure situations with potential safety impact: instantaneous jamming of the reel controlling the tether during deployment and cutting of the tether due to a meteor strike or other similar phenomena. Dual and multiple mass point models were used in the SAO SKYHOOK program to determine this behavior. The results of the program runs were verified analytically or by comparison with previously verified results. The study included the effects of tether damping and air drag where appropriate. Most runs were done with the tether system undamped since we believe this best represents the true behavior of the tether. Means for controlling undesirable behavior of the tether, such as viscous dampers in the subsatellite, were also studied.

Colombo, G.↗

DOE OSTI2023

Development of an Unmanned Mobile Current Turbine Platform: Preprint

The design and development of a prototype unmanned mobile floating platform, equipped with a custom low-flow marine current turbine for autonomously seeking and harnessing tidal/coastal currents is described. The platform is an unmanned surface vehicle in the form of a catamaran with two electric outboard motors and capabilities for autonomous navigation. An undershot water wheel, aided by a custom flow concentrator, has been selected as the basic design for the marine current turbine, which is mounted on the stern of the unmanned surface vehicle platform. The concept of operation is that the platform would navigate to a designated marine current resource, autonomously anchor at the location, align itself in the current and deploy the current turbine using a custom cable-lift deployment mechanism. As the turbine harnesses the local current, an onboard power-take-off device converts the harnessed mechanical energy to electricity which is stored in onboard batteries. Considerations of deployment in tidal and coastal waters required obtaining the necessary environmental permits for conducting in-water testing; developing required mitigation measures in protecting local wildlife and their habitats; and identifying potential in-water test sites and surveying them for their suitability in terms of the current resource, bottom type, water depth, and local boat traffic. The design and development of the turbine and the results of initial in-water testing are discussed. The potential for scaling up the system for extended capacity is presented.

ENGINEERING,TIDAL AND WAVE POWER↗

DOE OSTI2018

Tonopah Test Range Air Monitoring: CY2017 Meteorological, Radiological, and Wind Transported Particulate Observations

In 1963, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) (formerly the Atomic Energy Commission [AEC]), implemented Operation Roller Coaster on the Tonopah Test Range (TTR) and an adjacent area of the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) (formerly the Nellis Air Force Range). This operation resulted in radionuclide-contaminated soils at the Double Tracks site and Clean Slate I, II, and III sites. This report documents observations made during ongoing monitoring of radiological, meteorological, and dust conditions at stations installed adjacent to the Clean Slate sites and at the TTR Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) Range Operations Center (ROC). The primary objective of the monitoring effort is to support the DOE Environmental Management Nevada Program (EM NV) in the safe cleanup of the environmental legacy of nuclear device development and testing by determining if wind blowing across the Clean Slate sites is transporting particles of radionuclide-contaminated soil beyond the physical and administrative boundaries of the sites. The monitoring program underwent a significant change during 2017 with the decommissioning of one monitoring station and the establishment of three new stations. Station 400, located within TTR Area 3 and near the ROC, monitors conditions near the local workforce center and was in operation the full calendar year. Stations 401 and 403 are located on the northwest and southeast perimeter fence lines, respectively, of the Clean Slate III site. Station 401 operated throughout 2017, whereas Station 403 began operation at the end of April 2017. Stations 404 and 405 are along the northern and eastern boundary fence, respectively, at Clean Slate II and both began data collection at the end of April 2017. Also at the end of April, the Clean Slate I monitoring site, Station 402, was decommissioned. The stations are located to be generally downwind of the contaminated areas during either north-northwesterly or south-southeasterly winds, which are the predominant wind directions. The stations—which are similar in design to the Community Environmental Monitoring Program (CEMP) stations operating at locations surrounding the Nevada National Security Site and TTR—include meteorological instruments and continuous-flow, low-volume air samplers. Three pressurized ionization chambers for measuring gamma energy are in use at Stations 400, 401, and 403 (formerly at 402). Saltation sensors and saltation traps are deployed at the stations adjacent to the Clean Slate sites. Detailed meteorological data are recorded on data loggers, with periodic uploads via a satellite system to the Western Regional Climate Center (WRCC) at Desert Research Institute (DRI), to monitor instrument and site conditions. Air filter samples are collected every two weeks and the deposits in the saltation traps are collected when a sufficient sample mass for analysis has accumulated (generally a six- to eight-month interval). Dust transport by suspension and saltation is strongly dependent on wind speed. Concentrations of PM10 (particulate matter of aerodynamic diameter ≤10 micrometers [μm], a size fraction of small particles that are suspended in the air and can be easily inhaled) remain low until winds exceed approximately 32 km/hr (20 mph). Saltation particle counts also increase above the same general threshold wind speed. Wind speeds in excess of 32 km/hr (20 mph) occur less than three percent of the time. High winds are associated with two predominant directions: north-northwest and south. In 2017, the very highest winds were from the north, but all winds above 40 km/hr (25 mph) were approximately evenly split between south and northwest directions. The low-volume air samplers collect total suspended dust, and saltating particles are captured by the passive saltation traps, both for radiological analysis. Radionuclide monitoring at the ROC in TTR Area 3 (Station 400) found natural background levels of gross alpha and gross beta radiation. Similar background levels were found on filter samples analyzed using gamma and alpha spectroscopy. The gamma exposure rate data from pressurized ionization chambers (PIC) are comparable to those from the regional CEMP stations. Plutonium concentrations above background values were measured during 2017 from soil samples collected in passive saltation traps and on select air filters from the monitoring stations adjacent to the Clean Slate sites. The background for soils in the region is assumed to be 0.014 pCi/g plutonium-239+240 ( 239+240 Pu) as measured by Turner et al. (2003), whereas the background concentration of suspended 239+240Pu is assumed to be 9.5 x 10 -19 μCi/ml, which was determined by continuous air monitoring at the TTR airport in 1996 and 1997 (SNL, 1998). Background concentrations are exceeded by one to four orders of magnitude by the majority of samples from Clean Slate I, II, and III. The gross alpha and gross beta measurements of the air filters are also generally higher than those measured at the regional CEMP stations, although the gamma exposure rates determined by the PICs located at Clean Slate I and III are similar to CEMP measurements. The highest radionuclide concentrations of suspended dust are associated with individual filter samples from Clean Slate II Station 404 and Clean Slate III Station 401. Both of the stations are downwind of their respective sites during southerly winds, but they are also geographically closer to the highly contaminated detonation areas than the other monitoring stations. Considering all the analyzed samples, the 239+240Pu concentrations are generally higher for the Clean Slate II samples compared with those from Clean Slate III. The highest gross alpha and gross beta results are also observed for the Clean Slate II stations. The highest radionuclide concentrations are measured on the smaller (≤63 μm) saltation-sized particles and particulate matter collected downwind of each site. Nonetheless, traps oriented to collect dust moving toward the contamination areas also had plutonium concentrations significantly above background values, which is consistent with observations of low-level contamination dispersed beyond the fenced area. All the observed 239+240 Pu concentrations are below the risk-based action level (25 millirem per year, equivalent to a 239+240 Pu concentration of 4,120 pCi/g for an industrial worker scenario; U.S. DOE, 2014). The meteorological and particulate matter monitoring indicate that conditions for wind-borne contaminant movement exist at the Clean Slate sites, and that transport of radionuclide-contaminated soil by both suspension and saltation is occurring. The Corrective Action Unit (CAU) closure strategy uses a risk-based approach, whereby acceptable contaminant concentrations are determined as a function of anticipated human exposure. This strategy is consistent with the fence lines at the Clean Slate sites encircling areas of higher concentration and the observed presence of lower concentrations of contamination outside the fences.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

DOE OSTI2016

Global economic consequences of deploying bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS)

Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) is considered a potential source of net negative carbon emissions and, if deployed at sufficient scale, could potentially help reduce carbon dioxide emissions and concentrations. However, the viability and economic consequences of large-scale BECCS deployment are not fully understood. We use the GCAM integrated assessment model to explore the potential global and regional economic impacts of BECCS. BECCS always needs a net subsidy to be deployed; it never produces net tax revenue. We show that by mid-century, in a world committed to limiting climate change to 2°C, carbon tax revenues have peaked and are rapidly approaching the point where climate mitigation is a net burden on general tax revenues. Assuming that the required policy instruments are available to support BECCS deployment, we consider its effects on regional fossil fuels and biomass trade patterns. We find that in a world committed to limiting climate change to 2°C, the absence of CCS harms fossil-fuel exporting regions, while the presence of CCS and BECCS allows greater continued use and export of fossil fuels. We also explore the relationship between carbon prices, food crop prices and BECCS. We show that the carbon price and food-crop prices are directly related. We also show that BECCS reduces the upward pressure on food crop prices exerted by carbon prices due to its effect on lowering carbon prices and lowering the total biomass demand in climate change mitigation scenarios. All of this notwithstanding, many challenges, both technical and institutional, remain to be addressed before BECCS could be deployed at scale.

09 BIOMASS FUELS↗

DOE OSTI2016

Ground-based remote sensing scheme for monitoring aerosol–cloud interactions

A new method for continuous observation of aerosol–cloud interactions with ground-based remote sensing instruments is presented. The main goal of this method is to enable the monitoring of the change of the cloud droplet size due to the change in the aerosol concentration. We use high-resolution measurements from a lidar, a radar and a radiometer, which allow us to collect and compare data continuously. This method is based on a standardised data format from Cloudnet and can be implemented at any observatory where the Cloudnet data set is available. Two example case studies were chosen from the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Program deployment on Graciosa Island, Azores, Portugal, in 2009 to present the method. We use the cloud droplet effective radius ( r e ) to represent cloud microphysical properties and an integrated value of the attenuated backscatter coefficient (ATB) below the cloud to represent the aerosol concentration. All data from each case study are divided into bins of the liquid water path (LWP), each 10 g m -2 wide. For every LWP bin we present the correlation coefficient between ln r e and ln ATB, as well as ACI r (defined as ACI r = -d ln r e d ln ATB, change in cloud droplet effective radius with aerosol concentration). Obtained values of ACI r are in the range 0.01–0.1. In conclusion, we show that ground-based remote sensing instruments used in synergy can efficiently and continuously monitor aerosol–cloud interactions.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

NASA NTRS1998

GPS Monitoring of Surface Change During and Following the Fortuitous Occurrence of the M(sub w) = 7.3 Landers Earthquake in our Network

Accomplishments: (1) Continues GPS monitoring of surface change during and following the fortuitous occurrence of the M(sub w) = 7.3 Landers earthquake in our network, in order to characterize earthquake dynamics and accelerated activity of related faults as far as 100's of kilometers along strike. (2) Integrates the geodetic constraints into consistent kinematic descriptions of the deformation field that can in turn be used to characterize the processes that drive geodynamics, including seismic cycle dynamics. In 1991, we installed and occupied a high precision GPS geodetic network to measure transform-related deformation that is partitioned from the Pacific - North America plate boundary northeastward through the Mojave Desert, via the Eastern California shear zone to the Walker Lane. The onset of the M(sub w) = 7.3 June 28, 1992, Landers, California, earthquake sequence within this network poses unique opportunities for continued monitoring of regional surface deformation related to the culmination of a major seismic cycle, characterization of the dynamic behavior of continental lithosphere during the seismic sequence, and post-seismic transient deformation. During the last year, we have reprocessed all three previous epochs for which JPL fiducial free point positioning products available and are queued for the remaining needed products, completed two field campaigns monitoring approx. 20 sites (October 1995 and September 1996), begun modeling by development of a finite element mesh based on network station locations, and developed manuscripts dealing with both the Landers-related transient deformation at the latitude of Lone Pine and the velocity field of the whole experiment. We are currently deploying a 1997 observation campaign (June 1997). We use GPS geodetic studies to characterize deformation in the Mojave Desert region and related structural domains to the north, and geophysical modeling of lithospheric behavior. The modeling is constrained by our existing and continued GPS measurements, which will provide much needed data on far-field strain accumulation across the region and on the deformational response of continental lithosphere during and following a large earthquake, forming the basis for kinematic and dynamic modeling of secular and seismic-cycle deformation. GPS geodesy affords both regional coverage and high precision that uniquely bear on these problems.

Miller, M. Meghan↗

DOE OSTI2021

Designing Modules to Prevent Reverse Bias Degradation in Perovskite Solar Cells when Partial Shading Occurs

When a solar cell in a panel is shaded, the illuminated cells can place a large reverse bias on the shaded cell to attempt to force current through it. Although the panel can continue to produce power, the reverse bias can cause significant problems for the shaded cell. In the case of perovskite solar modules, Joule heating and irreversible electrochemical reactions will degrade the cell. Some photovoltaic technologies use bypass diodes to solve this problem. To prevent both a perovskite cell and an all-perovskite tandem cell from falling into reverse bias breakdown while shaded, no more than two cells per bypass diode are allowed, which is likely to be prohibitively expensive for many applications. Herein, how many solar cells can be protected by one bypass diode in single-junction and multijunction perovskite modules is explored. It is easier to incorporate bypass diodes into modules with singulated cells than with monolithic panels. It is shown that perovskite–silicon tandems can be protected with fewer bypass diodes than with single-junction perovskite modules. Furthermore, it is suggested that if bypass diodes cannot be feasibly incorporated, then the panels should be deployed in utility-scale power plants.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗

DOE OSTI2018

Coal-Powered Electric Generating Unit Efficiency and Reliability Dialogue: Summary Report

Coal continues to play a critical role in powering the Nation’s electricity generation, especially for baseload power plants. With aging coal generation assets facing decreased performance due to the state of the equipment, and with challenges exacerbated by the current market pressures on the coal sector, there are opportunities to advance early-stage technologies that can retrofit or replace equipment components. These changes will eventually result in significant improvements in plant performance once further developed and deployed by industry. Research and development in areas such as materials, fluid dynamics, fuel properties and preparation characteristics, and a new generation of plant controls can lead to new components and systems that can help improve the efficiency and reliability of coal-fired power plants significantly, allowing these assets to continue to provide baseload power. Coal stockpiles at electricity generation plants are typically large enough to provide 30 to 60 days of power prior to resupply—significantly enhancing the stability and reliability of the U.S. electricity sector. Falling prices for non-dispatchable renewable energy and mounting environmental regulations, among other factors, have stimulated efforts to improve the efficiency of these coal-fired electric generating units (EGUs). In addition, increased reliance on natural gas and non-dispatchable energy sources has spurred efforts to further increase the reliability of coal EGUs. The Coal Powered EGU Efficiency and Reliability Dialogue brought together stakeholders from across the coal EGU industry to discuss methods for improvement. Participants at the event reviewed performance-enhancing innovations in coal EGUs, discussed the potential for data-driven management practices to increase efficiency and reliability, investigated the impacts of regulatory compliance on coal EGU performance, and discussed upcoming challenges for the coal industry. This report documents the key findings and research suggestions discussed at the event. Discussions at the workshop will aid DOE in developing a set of distinct initiatives that can be pursued by government and industry to realize promising technological pursuits. DOE plans to use the results of the Dialogue coupled with ongoing technical analysis of efficiency opportunities within the coal-fired fleet, and additional studies to develop a comprehensive strategy for capitalizing on thermal efficiency improvements. Expected Power Plant Efficiency Improvements include developing cost-effective, efficient, and reliable technologies for boilers, turbines, and sensors and controls to improve the reliability and efficiency of existing coal-based power plants. The Office of Fossil Energy at DOE plans to work with industry to develop knowledge pertaining to advanced technologies and systems that industry can subsequently develop. These technologies and systems will increase reliability, add operational flexibility and improve efficiency, thereby providing more robust power generation infrastructure. The following table lists the research suggestions and questions for further investigation that were identified by participants in each session of the dialogue.

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT↗

NASA NTRS2020

An Inter Planetary Network Enabled by SmallSats

This paper describes the implementation of an unparalleled large sensor and communications platform along the solar system that we call the inter planetary network (IPN). The proposed IPN consists of thousands of small spacecraft (e.g. CubeSats) strategically deployed around planetary bodies in the solar system where each spacecraft is furnished with fast communications and sensor systems. The IPN concept is being proposed as an avant-garde science and communications platform that could allow for continuous fast communications and remarkable science returns. The IPN spacecraft, furnished with suitable miniaturized sensors, could form an amazing deep space platform for unique observation of the solar system, stars, galaxies and universe. A key feature of the IPN architecture is the use of swarms of spacecraft as network units. Super-high-speed intra-swarm communications could be achieved via omnidirectional optical links. The swarms act as autonomous network nodes and are capable of forming large synthetic apertures that enable high data rate communications among the IPN nodes. Depending on the sensors they carry, these swarms may also be capable of forming large synthetic sensors by rapidly combining data among the spacecraft. We envision distances between spacecraft forming a swarm to be in the range of 102-104 kilometers, whereas distances of 106-108 kilometers among swarms (IPN nodes) are expected. We provide an example of an initial IPN implementation in the inner solar system where swarms of spacecraft are deployed around the Earth, Moon, Mars, Venus and Mercury. Placing swarms around 3 Lagrange points per planet yield a total of 12 possible IPN network nodes. We present communications link calculations among IPN nodes that allow high data rate communications between Earth and Mars while Mars is in solar conjunction (behind the Sun). A second example of an IPN platforms includes a giant spaceborne radio telescope behind the moon.

Velazco, Jose↗

NASA NTRS2020

An Inter Planetary Network Enabled by SmallSats

Velazco, Jose E↗

DOE OSTI2014

Instrumentation to Monitor Transient Developing Periodic Flow in Newtonian Slurries

This paper describes measurement techniques developed and applied to characterize solids mobilization and mixing of Newtonian slurries that are subjected to transient, periodic, developing flows. Metrics to characterize mobilization and mixing are the just suspended velocity (UJS) and the cloud height (HC). Two ultrasonic instruments to characterize pulse jet mixing of slurries were developed and deployed to measure related metrics: the thickness of the settled bed (used to determine mobilization) and the concentration within the cloud as a function of elevation [C(Z)]. A second method, continuous sample extraction, characterization, and reinsertion was successfully used to measure average density and characterize the concentration within the cloud. Testing focused on mixing vessels using intermitent jet mixers oriented vertically downward. Descriptions of the instruments and instrument performance are presented. These techniques were an effective approach to characterize mixing phenomena, determine mixing energy required to fully mobilize vessel contents, and to determine mixing times for process evaluation.

concentration profile↗

DOE OSTI2026

Multi-GeV FFA beam transport test at CEBAF

Jefferson National Lab plans an upgrade project to reach 22 GeV high polarization electron beam by using Fixed Field Alternating-gradient (FFA) magnets. The utilization of the FFA magnets for 10-22 GeV beam energy range is unexampled, therefore those magnets need an experimental validation before their full installation to form an arc in the Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF). For this reason, JLAB is also considering the design of an FFA magnet test bench, i.e. a half or full FFA cell, that would be deployed in the current CEBAF in order to serve as the highest energy demonstration for the FFA field uniformity, permanent magnet resiliency with the beam as well as enabling beam optics measurements with the 5-11 GeV range highly polarized beams which closely resembles the full energy range of the 22 GeV upgrade. In this report, we present the status of the planned beamline for the FFA beam transport test at CEBAF.

Accelerator Physics↗

DOE OSTI2012

Solar America Initiative State Working Group (Final Scientific/Technical Report)

Through the support from the Department of Energy, NARUC has educated thousands of stakeholders, including Public Utility Commissioners, commission staff, and State energy officials on solar energy technology, implementation, and policy. During the lifetime of this grant, NARUC staff engaged stakeholders in policy discussions, technical research, site visits, and educational meetings/webinars/materials that provided valuable education and coordination on solar energy technology and policy among the States. Primary research geared toward State decision-makers enabled stakeholders to be informed on current issues and created new solar energy leaders throughout the United States. Publications including a Frequently Asked Questions guide on feed-in tariffs and a legal analysis of state implementation of feed-in tariffs gave NARUC members the capacity to understand complex issues related to the economic impacts of policies supportive of solar energy, and potential paths for implementation of technology. Technical partnerships with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) instructed NARUC members on feed-in tariff policy for four States and solar PV resource assessment in seven States, as well as economic impacts of solar energy implementation in those States. Because many of the States in these technical partnerships had negligible amounts of solar energy installed, this research gave them new capacity to understand how policies and implementation could impact their constituency. This original research produced new data now available, not only to decision-makers, but also to the public at-large including educational institutions, NGOs, consumer groups, and other citizens who have an interest in solar energy adoption in the US. Under this grant, stakeholders engaged in several dialogs. These educational opportunities brought NARUC members and other stakeholders together several times each year, shared best practices with State decision-makers, fostered partnerships and relationships with solar energy experts, and aided in increasing the implementation of smart policies that will foster solar technology deployment. The support from the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy has created solar energy leaders in the States; leaders who will serve to be a continuing valuable resource as States consider adoption of new low-carbon and domestic energy supply to meet the energy needs of the United States.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗

DOE OSTI2026

Use of Power Hardware-in-the-Loop and Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop to De-Risk the Use Of Grid-Forming Fuel Cell Inverters in Microgrids

Microgrids continue to proliferate, particularly those that rely on inverter-based resources as the microgrid's voltage and frequency leader. Hardware-in-the-loop simulations can de-risk microgrid deployments, and therefore we need power-hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) interfaces for grid-forming (GFM) inverters to enable simulations of seamless transitions between islanded and grid-connected operation. Such interfaces are particularly challenging when the inverters need to switch modes, i.e., between grid-following (GFL) and GFM as the microgrid transitions between grid-connected and islanded operation. This presentation shows the use of PHIL interfaces for such microgrids and the preliminary experimental results.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗