Data Integration and Analysis

Data integration and analysis provide the foundation for the research that takes place in the Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF).

Research collaborators and industry partners bring their data to our experts to find novel, objective insights to complex energy questions. The ESIF's advanced computing and data integration capabilities enable unprecedented large-scale numerical models for analyzing properties, processes, and fully integrated systems that would otherwise be too expensive, too dangerous, or even impossible to study by direct experimentation.

The ESIF's powerful advanced computing and visualization capabilities go beyond what is found in a typical utility operations center to enable unprecedented data integration and analysis. With the ESIF's real-time data stream, state-of-the-art, high-resolution visual imagery can effectively convey information and illustrate research findings to stakeholders. For example:

• A utility can see the impact of its solar energy systems in a nearby town by using data visualization software layered with live energy usage data.
• Innovators and researchers can collaborate on the effectiveness of a grid-connected energy storage device by watching live-streaming data and video feeds from an experiment being conducted in an ESIF laboratory.
• Researchers can collaborate with a remote laboratory to conduct a live experiment in which one portion is located at NREL, such as a simulated electrical distribution system connected to a power electronic converter, and the other portion is located at the partner laboratory, such as a home with smart appliances and a residential energy storage device.

The ESIF Advantage

High-Performance Computing and Visualization Capabilities

At the ESIF, NREL experts and collaborators can take full advantage of advanced computing resources for data analysis and integration. Advanced visualization technology helps researchers explore and interact with data in new ways that accelerate understanding and innovation, and a robust data-streaming platform allows projects to stream their data out of lab equipment and integrate them with other devices or simulation systems.

Data integration and analysis at the ESIF spans multiple research areas and energy technologies. For more information on NREL's crosscutting energy analysis and scientific computing capabilities, visit the Energy Analysis and Computational Science websites.