How it Works

The Setup

Participants in our program have modules installed on their pumps and pivots so that everything can be controlled wirelessly. The participants are also given access to a web interface where they can see the up to the minute status of their equipment (off, on, watering, standby) and also send commands to the module to remotely shutdown and startup their equipment. They also have access to a phone system where the participant can key in commands and also listen to status reports on their equipment.

The utility company also has access to this interface and is able to create "Load Control Events" where commands can be sent to create a controlled power shutdown. The setup is easily scalable so as to allow the utility to choose whether to focus on one site, customer, area, city, region, state or even complete service area.

Load Control Event

When a utility wants to create an event they notify Spartan of the times, duration, and location. Spartan then creates the event and issues a notification to all the participants via e-mail, text message, and automated phone calls. Depending on the program, participants might have the option to "opt-out" of an event for a number of reasons, usually resulting in some form of penalty to the participant.

When the event is scheduled to start, commands are automatically sent out to the modules to shutdown for the set duration.

Graph: To the right is a plot made from SCADA data of a substation that has several participants. You can see the different steps as areas are shut off and then the end where everything is turned back on.

At the end of the event, the modules will restore power and the equipment will either startup again or stay in standby - depending on how the participant has setup their equipment.

After a Load Control Event

Spartan monitors the entire event and gathers data from the modules to ensure the quality of the program. Spartan is able to see if a module has discontinued to work or if it has been tampered with. Between events, these modules are visited and returned to a working order.

The Results

In short we make it so the power companies can "buy" power from growers to reroute to homes and businesses during peak energy usage times.

The end results of our system are avoided blackouts, decreased energy usage, and decreased construction of power substations and plants. As part of our mission, the goal is not to produce more energy, but to better use the energy sources we already have.