Swiss distribution grid operators can use ripple-control receivers to request defined active-power limits from local installations. SmartgridOne reads the configured relay states, applies the corresponding control target and keeps the connected assets within their technical boundaries.

Watch the Swiss DSO configuration

The embedded walkthrough shows how a ripple-control receiver is connected and configured with SmartgridOne. It covers the practical signal path from the relay input to the active-power response of the installation.

Why ripple control is still relevant

Many Swiss grid-control projects use a ripple-control receiver with several relay outputs. Each contact combination represents a defined operating state, such as unrestricted production or a reduced active-power percentage. The exact wiring, percentages and required behaviour are specified by the local distribution grid operator.

SmartgridOne translates those physical relay states into a coordinated target for compatible assets. Instead of relying on an isolated hard stop at one inverter, the EMS can manage the installation as a whole while respecting the mandatory limit measured at the relevant point of connection.

Signal path from DSO command to power limit

1. The DSO sends a command. The ripple-control receiver changes the state of one or more potential-free relay contacts.
2. SmartgridOne reads the inputs. The configured combination is matched to the correct DSO operating state.
3. The EMS calculates the target. The requested percentage or power limit is translated into a site-level control objective.
4. Compatible assets respond. Solar inverters, batteries or other controllable equipment are coordinated within their individual limits.
5. The grid meter verifies the outcome. Actual import or export at the connection point confirms whether the command has been achieved.

Configuration and commissioning checklist

• Obtain the DSO specification. Never assume that relay assignments or reduction percentages are identical between grid areas.
• Document the wiring. Label every contact and record the relationship between the receiver, controller input and configured state.
• Verify input logic. Confirm whether each contact is normally open or normally closed and test all valid combinations.
• Check the grid measurement. Validate current direction, phase mapping, scaling, update rate and meter location.
• Test every reduction level. Activate the states one by one and measure the actual response at the point of connection.
• Confirm the fallback. Agree what the installation must do if the receiver, input signal, meter or asset communication becomes unavailable.
• Record the handover. Save the final mapping, screenshots and measured test results for the operator.

Priority over economic optimisation

A mandatory grid-control signal must take priority over functions such as dynamic price optimisation, battery arbitrage or self-consumption. Those local objectives can continue when sufficient flexibility remains, but they must never cause the installation to exceed the active DSO limit.

The behaviour should be deterministic and testable. If the DSO requests a restriction, the response must not depend on a favourable price forecast or an optional cloud service. The installer should verify the project-specific requirements and supported device models before commissioning.

Open the Swiss DSO documentation

Follow the Swiss DSO setup guide →

Review the complete DSO integration overview →   Configure direct relay control →

Before selecting the hardware, check the SmartgridOne controller specifications →