New 69kV Solution Targets Grid Safety in Distributed Energy Integration

GridEdge Networks and Custom Electronics, Inc. have developed a 69kV Distributed Generation Permissive system that improves safety by preventing unintentional islanding through powerline communication, reducing costs and meeting IEEE standards.
Sept. 3, 2025
2 min read
GridEdge Networks
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Custom Electronics, Inc. (CEI) and GridEdge Networks, Inc. have developed a 69kV Distributed Generation Permissive (DGP) system designed to improve the safety of integrating distributed energy resources (DER) into utility grids. 

The system addresses a long-standing safety concern for utilities: the risk of unintentional islanding. When DER units continue generating electricity after being disconnected from the main grid, they can create hazardous power fluctuations for utility crews and equipment.

“As more independent power producers connect to the electric grid, utilities face new safety risks when utility crews work on power lines,” said Nachum Sadan, CEO of GridEdge Networks. “Our DGP system provides failsafe protection by automatically disconnecting renewable energy sources when grid faults occur, eliminating the risk of unintentional islanding.”

Unlike Direct Transfer Trip systems that rely on fiber-optic communications, the DGP solution transmits signals over existing power lines. The design uses standard Coupling Capacitor Voltage Transformers (CCVTs), reducing the need for costly fiber installations while meeting the IEEE 1547-2018 interconnection standard. The approach is also recognized in IEEE 1547.1-2020 as a “Powerline Conducted Permissive Signal” method.

CEI contributed its six decades of experience in high-voltage capacitors and power systems to the project. “This collaboration leverages our proven high-voltage manufacturing capabilities to support the clean energy transition,” said Michael Pentaris, President and CEO at CEI.

Developed with input from U.S. utility partners, the 69kV DGP system is now available for sub-transmission applications. GridEdge will provide commissioning and operator training as part of deployment.