What is NATS?

First of all, a brief explanation on what NATS is. NATS (Neural Autonomic Transport System) is an open-source messaging system ideal for cloud-native applications, IoT messaging, and microservices architectures. It offers:

• High Performance: Handles millions of messages per second.
• Low Latency: Delivers sub-millisecond latency.
• Scalability: Scales effortlessly to millions of connections.
• Simple API: Features a straightforward, easy-to-use API.
• Lightweight: Utilizes minimal system resources.

NATS in Power Platform Application

Direct Energy Partners employs NATS for two-way communication between its controller and external applications. This setup allows applications like PMS to monitor and control power and energy resources efficiently.

Communication Patterns

1. Publish/Subscribe: External applications subscribe to topics for updates like real-time energy consumption data or alerts.
2. Request/Reply: Applications send requests to the controller for actions (e.g., adjusting power settings) and receive immediate responses.