WhyGrene is accelerating the clean energy transition by simplifying the management of virtual power plants (VPPs) that integrate solar, batteries, and electric vehicles. Their Grene™ Platform models deployments with digital twin VPP simulations and optimizes asset charging schedules to return on investment for utility customers.
Engaging with the Testbeds
The partnership between WhyGrene and the Washington Clean Energy Testbeds began through a collaborative effort with Joule Case, a fellow Testbeds user company in the battery sector. Initially, WhyGrene’s goal was to prove their software’s capability in monitoring and managing a Joule Case battery that was connected to the Seattle City Light grid, utilizing the Systems Integration Testbed. They aimed to demonstrate their software’s ability to effectively charge a battery pack, then safely discharge it back into the grid.
Impact of the Testbeds on WhyGrene’s technology
The Testbeds played an essential role in simulating WhyGrene’s software functionality in a real-world setting, allowing them to effectively manage a battery. This successful demonstration provided WhyGrene with a significant competitive edge, leading to engagements with two Fortune 500 companies that recognized the value of their proven technology. The bi-directional connection facilitated by the Testbeds and the real-time digital twin data computed were significant in this process.
Key achievements and innovations
At the Testbeds, WhyGrene significantly enhanced their technology for vehicle-to-anything (V2X) applications and evolved their digital twin simulation from a demonstration tool into a core product. The technology was further developed and applied in real-world VPP projects, transitioning digital twin simulations into operational virtual power plants.
Overcoming challenges
WhyGrene faced substantial challenges during their development process, particularly integrating a battery pack with the grid. The Testbeds’ existing capabilities and ecosystem network, including a collaboration with a battery startup, provided WhyGrene the necessary infrastructure to successfully connect and test a novel battery design, and to quickly troubleshoot and refine their product.
Future prospects and applications
WhyGrene is expanding their use of the Testbeds with several upcoming projects. These include collaborations with an electric vehicle company for V2X simulations and with a utility for a cybersecurity project, further pushing the boundaries of what their technology can achieve in the energy sector.
WhyGrene’s Testbeds testimonial
“Our experience at the Testbeds has been transformative,” said Patrick Phelps, WhyGrene founder and CEO. “The ability to manage and refine our technology in a real-world setting has not only accelerated our development process, but also ensured our solutions are robust and reliable. And we learned a lot from the unique opportunity to collaborate with another user company and Testbeds technical staff in order to maximize the real-time simulated testing environment. We highly recommend the Testbeds to any company looking to innovate and gain a competitive edge in the market.”
