Switched Source aims to improve the electricity grid’s reliability, resiliency, and distributed energy resource hosting capacity by introducing the next generation of distribution automation technology for large commercial and industrial customers and electric utilities.

Switched Source has developed a new set of power system devices that improve utility operations by continuously optimizing power flow on the grid. These power electronics-based tools route power where it’s needed, from circuit-to-circuit with the Tie Controller, and from phase-to-phase with the Phase-EQ. This equipment is categorized as distribution automation, and provides benefits similar to utility scale energy storage, but at approximately 5-15% of the cost and footprint. Applications include dynamic feeder balancing to support non-wires alternatives, distributed solar, and system restoration after a fault. Additional functionality includes dynamic phase balancing to enhance power quality, eliminate lateral re-tapping, and increase system efficiency.

Switched Source is headquartered in Vestal, New York and designs medium voltage power electronics equipment for distribution utilities. Its devices were designed for utility applications with support from G&W Electric, the US Department of Energy, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), and input from three utilities on the east coast. The intellectual property was invented at Michigan State University, where it was first supported with an ARPA-E grant through the GENI program in 2012. The team at Switched Source was formed in 2016 and includes experts in power electronics design and controls, power systems applications engineering, energy project development, and business development.

Switched Source’s product portfolio consists of two patented smart grid devices that actively manage real and reactive power flows on medium voltage systems. The critical next step to gain acceptance as a viable investment and validated utility technology is through structured demonstration projects on partner utility electric distribution systems, with third-party performance evaluations. SCALEUP will enable Switched Source to resolve remaining technology and commercial adoption risks by establishing the processes, infrastructure, and technology validation to bring a game-changing ARPA-E technology to the utility market.

Switched Source’s Tie Controller device (10 MVA spec.)

Switched Source’s Phase-EQ device