Simple Controls Scenarios
Simple Controls Scenarios
Starting in May 2025, Keystone Designer supports the modeling of Simple Controls scenarios. In this context, Simple Controls means charging an energy storage system during off-peak times, and discharging the system during expensive peak times (4 - 9 PM). This implementation is designed to support financial modeling for Title 24 projects in California, and currently only California projects have the ability to model Simple Controls.
When creating a project in California, the Simple Controls check box will appear in the Scenario Editor:
Many CA state requirements will require charging from PV only. If this is the case for the project you are modeling, you will need to ensure the 100 % Renewable Charging checkbox is also selected when modeling a Simple Controls scenario:
In a Simple Controls scenario, all demand charge and peak pricing constraints are ignored. This means that the modeled energy storage dispatch will not seek to reduce demand charges or supplement utility usage during peak pricing events. Any demand reduction during the peak period is due to the battery discharging during this period.
At times, the battery may export during off-peak times to satisfy export constraints. For example, if exports are not allowed in a scenario the battery may discharge overnight to ensure there is enough free capacity to charge from solar the following day.
Related Articles
Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)
Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) Overview In order to run an optimization scenario, at least one DER option is required to be added and configured. Keystone Designer provides the following types of DERs: PV Rooftop Ground mount Carport Custom ...Scenario Processing
Scenario Processing After adding at least one DER, the scenario will be valid to save. Once saved, the scenario can be submitted for processing. NOTE: once a scenario is submitted, it cannot be modified; however, a submitted scenario can be copied ...Additional Scenario Features
Additional Scenario Features After running an initial optimization scenario as a starting point, it is common for users to want to refine the scenario parameters and compare these refined results. Keystone Designer offers a few features that will ...Solar Retrofit Modeling
Solar Retrofit Modeling Starting in March 2025, Keystone Designer supports modeling solar retrofits. A solar retrofit is a scenario where there is an existing solar array, and project stakeholders want to explore adding additional solar and/or an ...Overall Scenario Settings
Overall Scenario Settings An optimization scenario, centered around a single energy use profile, defines the settings, resources, and constraints to be considered when designing the optimal installed microgrid. Scenarios are built with smart defaults ...