System and method for providing collaborating power controllers

Logic encoded in one or more tangible non-transitory media that includes code for execution and when executed by a processor operable to perform operations comprising:

• detecting a quantity of reactive power on a specific segment of an energy system;
• selecting one network element from a plurality of network elements connected to the specific segment of the energy system and capable of producing reactive power, wherein the selecting is based on at least one of a billing plan associated with each of the network elements, a power agreement associated with each of the network elements, a subscriber base of the specific segment of the energy system, and the functional status and capabilities of each of the network elements;
• sending a message associated with the detection to the selected network element, the message specifying a power level of the detected reactive power;
• wherein subsequent to receipt of the message, the selected network element induces a first quantity of reactive power at the power level specified in the message, wherein the first quantity of reactive power is induced in order to mitigate a second quantity of reactive power detected on the specific segment of the energy system, and wherein the first quantity of reactive power is induced at a local level on which a source associated with the second quantity of reactive power operates;
• and
• generating a bill for a particular time interval, wherein the bill is based on compliance with the message by inducing the first quantity of reactive power by the selected network element.

An apparatus, comprising:

• a memory element configured to store electronic code;
• a processor operable to execute instructions associated with the electronic code;
• and
• a management system configured to interface with the processor and further configured to:
• detect a quantity of reactive power on a specific segment of an energy system;
• select one network element from a plurality of network elements connected to the specific segment of the energy system and capable of producing reactive power, wherein the selecting is based on at least one of a billing plan associated with each of the network elements, a power agreement associated with each of the network elements, a subscriber base of the specific segment of the energy system, and the functional status and capabilities of each of the network elements;
• send a message associated with the detection to the selected network element, the message specifying a power level of the detected reactive power;
• wherein subsequent to receipt of the message, the selected network element induces a first quantity of reactive power at the power level specified in the message, wherein the first quantity of reactive power is induced in order to mitigate a second quantity of reactive power detected on the specific segment of the energy, and wherein the first quantity of reactive power is induced at a local level on which a source associated with the second quantity of reactive power operates;
• and
• generate a bill for a particular time interval, wherein the bill is based on compliance with the message by inducing the first quantity of reactive power by the selected network element.