The IEEE PES General Meeting once again confirmed that the energy sector is entering a new phase of transformation, driven by the rapid growth of AI-powered data centers, the expansion of inverter-based resources (IBRs), and the ongoing modernization of power grids. These trends are reshaping the way utilities, developers, and system operators approach grid stability, resilience, and reliability.
During the event, experts from EnerNex, a CESI company, contributed to key technical discussions on some of the industry’s most pressing challenges. Nathan Kassees, Principal Consultant at EnerNex, participated in the tutorial “Microgrids: Real-World Operations, Considerations, and Lessons Learned,” exploring operational strategies and best practices for resilient, DER-rich distribution networks. David Mueller, US Vice President of Energy System Studies at EnerNex, joined a panel focused on “Power Quality and Harmonic Modeling and Simulation for Large Load Impact Studies,” highlighting the growing power quality and harmonic challenges associated with the rapid expansion of data centers and energy-intensive industrial facilities.
As electricity demand continues to rise and renewable integration accelerates, advanced power system studies are becoming increasingly critical. Utilities and project developers are seeking solutions to assess dynamic load behavior, evaluate grid impacts, and address concerns related to ride-through capability, voltage and frequency sensitivity, and rapid load ramping.
The discussions at IEEE PES GM underscored the importance of sophisticated grid modeling, electromagnetic transient (EMT) studies, and microgrid design in supporting a reliable and resilient energy transition. As power systems become more complex, these capabilities will be essential to ensuring secure and stable grid operations worldwide.
