Remote control signals are control commands or setpoint specifications that allow grid operators to remotely influence the active and reactive power of connected systems—such as generation facilities, battery storage systems, or charging infrastructure. They are a key tool in grid security management and are therefore of growing importance for charging infrastructure operators with charging stations connected to the medium-voltage grid and equipped with a grid-supporting energy management system.
Definition of terms
Remote control signals transmit control commands or setpoint specifications from a grid operator to a connected facility. They enable the grid operator to control facilities as needed—for example, to prevent grid congestion, regulate voltage, or comply with technical grid limits.
Legal and Technical Requirements for Telecontrol Signals
VDE-AR-N 4110 defines the requirements for connecting systems to the medium-voltage grid. Depending on the type of system and the grid operator, telecontrol systems and equipment for implementing power specifications may be required; for example, an EZA controller for generation systems or suitable control devices for storage systems and charging infrastructure. VDE-AR-N 4120 applies to the high-voltage grid. Both sets of regulations make it clear that larger facilities require technical equipment to reliably meet the grid operator’s specifications for active and reactive power.
How do remote control signals work?
- The grid operator detects a grid situation that requires an adjustment
- A control signal with a setpoint for active or reactive power is transmitted to the system
- The EZA controller or the plant’s energy management system implements the specification from a technical standpoint
- Once the grid situation has stabilized, the restriction will be lifted again
Relevance for Charging Infrastructure Operators
Depending on the grid connection and the requirements of the relevant grid operator, larger charging stations connected to the medium-voltage grid must be able to receive and process telecontrol signals. Taking this requirement into account early in the planning phase helps avoid technical retrofits later on, actively contributes to the safe integration of renewable energy, and supports grid-friendly operation of the charging infrastructure.
Technical Implementation
Data is transmitted via a telecontrol system and appropriate communication links. Depending on the grid operator, different telecontrol protocols and communication channels are used. Smaller consumption devices below the thresholds specified in VDE-AR-N 4110—such as private or small commercial charging points—are instead often connected via a control box in accordance with the rules for controllable consumption devices under Section 14a of the Energy Industry Act (EnWG).
Relationship to Energy Management Systems
An energy management system can centrally receive remote control signals and automatically forward them to individual charging points or battery storage systems. This allows the required grid responsiveness to be achieved without the need for manual intervention in the operation of the charging infrastructure.
Distinction from related terms
Not to be confused with:
- Controllable consumption devices (Section 14a of the Energy Industry Act (EnWG)): applies to smaller, mostly non-public charging stations and follows its own set of regulations outside of VDE-AR-N 4110
- Redispatch 2.0: A method for preventing grid congestion by adjusting feed-in power levels; it applies to both the transmission and distribution grid levels. Telecontrol signals can be used as a technical communication channel for implementing grid operator directives.
- EZA controller: a technical device for implementing remote control signals and grid operator specifications within a power generation facility or an energy system
Summary
Telecontrol signals enable grid operators to specifically adjust the output of connected facilities as needed, thereby ensuring local grid stability. Depending on the grid connection and the grid operator’s requirements, the ability to process remote control signals is a prerequisite for operators of large charging fleets on the medium-voltage grid to ensure compliance with operating regulations.
Note: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individual legal, technical, or financial advice.
