A compact sensor captures fast voltage and current changes in real time, helping utilities monitor modern grids shaped by renewables, power electronics and data centres.
As power grids absorb more renewable energy, data centres and battery systems, utilities are struggling to track fast electrical changes driven by modern power electronics. Traditional monitoring tools often miss these rapid events, limiting the operator’s ability to respond before small disturbances escalate into larger stability issues.
To address this gap, researchers at the US Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee have developed the Universal GridEdge Analyzer, a compact sensing device that delivers detailed and real time insight into grid behaviour.
The analyzer measures tiny fluctuations in voltage and current as detailed waveforms, then rapidly compresses, encrypts, and streams the data to secure servers. Operating at up to 60,000 measurements per second, it captures grid dynamics at speeds far beyond existing tools, revealing split second interactions that were previously invisible.
Built for flexibility, the device can be embedded directly into power electronics, installed on distribution lines or even plugged into a standard wall outlet. It builds on the University’s GridEye monitoring network, which provides a broad view of grid conditions, by adding high speed, localized insight into how individual assets behave.
Utilities in regions such as Hawaii and Texas are already using the analyzer to study how dense clusters of power electronics interact with the grid. At AI data centers, for example, even brief voltage changes can trigger backup systems. Real time visibility allows operators to anticipate these responses and maintain stable operation.
Key features of the analyser include:
- Captures voltage and current changes at 60,000 samples per second
- Provides real time encrypted data streaming for grid monitoring
- Flexible deployment across power electronics and distribution networks
- Supports grid stability as power electronics adoption grows
Yilu Liu, lead researcher and UT ORNL Governor’s Chair for Power Electronics, says, “This technology lets us see grid dynamics that were previously hidden, helping utilities manage fast acting power electronics and maintain reliable electricity for everyone.”
