Swiss power and automation firm ABB has invested in Canada-based Enbala Power Networks to co-develop grid software.

The investment in the power distribution networks software provider was made through ABB Technology Ventures.

ABB and Enbala are developing a new distributed energy resource management system (DERMS), which is expected to allow utilities, grid operators and energy service firms to manage the complete lifecycle of distributed energy resources efficiently.

DERMS is also expected to enhance ABB Ability platform by helping it in providing grid operators control over the increasing number of distributed energy resources.

ABB chief technology officer Bazmi Husain said: “We are excited to invest in and partner with Enbala, a fast-growing innovation pioneer recognized for its ground-breaking energy resource control and optimization software.

“This investment will lead to a further enhancement of our digital ABB Ability offering, helping customers to maximize opportunities by leveraging distributed energy resources.”

As per ABB, grid operators need digital solutions to tackle the challenges arising from the growing numbers of sporadic renewable and distributed energy sources joining the grid.

ABB stated that to maintain the grid balance and optimize it in real-time, the need for digital solutions has grown in line with the increase in wind mills and photovoltaic panels.

Enbala president and CEO Arthur “Bud” Vos said: “We believe this partnership will drive further innovation and operational integration, making largescale use of distributed energy a reality. We look forward to working together with ABB on this strategic initiative.”

DERMS would also ensure that the electric distribution network will be safe, secure and operate efficiently and allow more active involvement from energy consumers.

The partners will also develop new capabilities to smoothly merge distributed energy resources into microgrid solutions of ABB.