File 34973

NEW TECHNOLOGIES TO FACILITATE INCREASED LEVELS GENERATION OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION
CONTRACT NUMBER: DG/DTI/00039/05/00 URN NUMBER: 06/1829
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NEW TECHNOLOGIES TO FACILITATE INCREASED LEVELS GENERATION OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION

NUMBER CONTRACT NUMB ER DG/DTI/000 /00039/05/00 DG/DTI/000 39/05/00 NUMBER: URN NUMBER: 06/1829
This work was commissioned and managed by the DTI's Distributed Generation Programme in support of the Technical Steering Group (TSG) of the Distributed Generation Co-ordinating Group (DGCG). The DGCG is jointly chaired by DTI and Ofgem, and further information can be found at www.distributed-generation.gov.uk
Contractor
P B Power
The work described in this report was carried out under contract as part of the DTI Technology Programme: New and Renewable Energy, which is managed by Future Energy Solutions. The views and judgements expressed in this report are those of the contractor and do not necessarily reflect those of the DTI or Future Energy Solutions.
First published 2006 Crown Copyright 2006
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Project Steering Group Summary

To implement the recommendations of the DTI/Ofgem report on Embedded Generation, a Distributed Generation Co-ordinating Group (DGCG), together with a supporting Technical Steering Group (TSG) was established. A number of workstreams were formed by the TSG one of which, Workstream 5 (WS5) is focussed on long-term network solutions. An issue addressed by WS5 was to establish what new technology was likely to become available by 2010. WS5 commissioned a Report, via Future Energy Solutions, from PB Power with the following principal objectives: 1. To identify what new technologies are available or emerging (in UK and world-wide) to facilitate increased levels of Distributed Generation (DG) in the time frame to 2010; and 2. To provide a summary of the status of emerging technologies to help inform decisions about what further work might be appropriate in this area. The Report considered network-related technologies - including primary and secondary plant, telecommunications and IT. Generation-related technologies were omitted except where they formed part of a wider network solution. In compiling the Report the authors considered technologies that may not yet be fully developed, commercially available, or are cost effective but which would have the potential to be so by 2010. The Report identified that the technologies likely to have the most impact on the connection of additional generation were super-conducting fault current limiters, in-line voltage regulators, micro-grid controllers and reactive power compensators such as SVCs, FACTs and STATCOMs. Some of these technologies would be commercially available well before 2010, other may be still at the demonstrator stage by that time. In commissioning the Report it was not the intention of WS5 to provide an exhaustive list of emerging technologies, research, development and demonstration projects and initiatives being undertaken by manufacturers. The intention was to understand what new technologies were emerging to inform decisions on what might be done to eliminate barriers for the introduction of DG. Whilst particular new technologies might be noted as being developed by a certain manufacturer, it should not be interpreted as being solely developed by that manufacturer or to be the only new technologies being developed by that manufacturer. A number of areas were identified where additional work may be required to remove potential barriers to the connection of additional generation. The successful connection and operation of large quantities of distributed generation will require a high-speed reliable communications network to be established. No standards were identified which cover communications protocols between the substations and remote devices on the distribution system. The Distribution Working Group (DWG) of the Energy Network Steering Group (ENSG) will need to consider the issues raised in the report and ensure that they are taken into account in scoping work programmes. The WS5 P10 Project Group
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CONTENTS Page No. 1. 2. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................1 STUDY METHODOLOGY..................................................................................................3 2.1 2.2 2.3 3. Literature Searches ...................................................................................................3 Internet Searches.......................................................................................................3 Questionnaires and Interviews ................................................................................3
INTERVIEWS AND QUESTIONNAIRES...........................................................................5 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 Interviews ...................................................................................................................5 ABB .............................................................................................................................5 AREVA.........................................................................................................................6 Econnect.....................................................................................................................6 Remsdaq.....................................................................................................................7 University of Manchester .........................................................................................7
4.
PRIMARY PLANT TECHNOLOGIES.................................................................................8 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 Introduction................................................................................................................8 Transformers..............................................................................................................8 Overhead Lines and Cables....................................................................................11 SVCs, FACTs and STATCOMs................................................................................14 Switchgear and Fault Current Limiters .................................................................16
5.
SECONDARY PLANT TECHNOLOGIES.........................................................................20 5.1 5.2 5.3 Introduction..............................................................................................................20 SCADA Systems and Substation Automation .....................................................20 Communications Systems......................................................................................25
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6.
PRIMARY PLANT RESULTS SUMMARY ......................................................................28 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 Transformers............................................................................................................28 Overhead Lines and Cables....................................................................................31 SVCs, FACTS and STATCOMs ...............................................................................32 Switchgear and Fault Current Limiters .................................................................34
7.
SECONDARY PLANT RESULTS SUMMARY................................................................36 7.1 SCADA Systems and Substation Automation .....................................................36
8.
CONCLUSIONS...............................................................................................................38 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6 8.7 8.8 Transformers............................................................................................................38 Overhead Lines and Cables....................................................................................38 SVCs, FACTS and STATCOMs ...............................................................................39 Switchgear and Fault Current Limiters .................................................................39 SCADA Systems and Substation Automation .....................................................39 Communications Systems......................................................................................40 Others .......................................................................................................................40 Summary..................................................................................................................41
9.
REFERENCES...................................................................................................................43
Appendix A Study Brief Appendix B Questionnaire sent to Manufacturers Appendix C Responses from Manufacturers
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Executive Summary
PB Power was commissioned by the DTI to identify new or emerging technologies that would have the potential to allow increased levels of distributed generation to be connected to the network up to 2010. The review covered primary and secondary plant infrastructure, communications and IT. The work was carried out in two stages. The first stage comprised literature searches, internet searches, discussions with manufacturers and research institutions, as well as information gathering from PB Power specialists. This information gathering stage was a world wide review to identify significant R&D activities and products which may be applicable to the UK distribution system. In addition, any overseas practices which may be beneficial to the UK system were also identified. Interviews were undertaken with four manufacturers and one university in order to gain a better understanding of their R&D activities, identify any research gaps and find any barriers to the development of systems necessary to allow the connection of distributed generation. The second stage of work reviewed all of the data collected during the first stage. The results were classified by technology and rated according to their ability to allow the connection of additional generation. The likely benefits and timescales for implementation of each technology were also provided. Cost data has not been presented due to the lack of data provided by the various manufacturers and institutions. The review identified that the technologies likely to have the most impact on the connection of additional generation before 2010 were super-conducting fault current limiters, in-line voltage regulators, micro-grid controllers and reactive power compensators such as SVCs, FACTs and STATCOMs. Super-conducting fault current limiters would allow the connection of generation into networks where fault levels would otherwise be exceeded. In-line voltage regulators have been demonstrated to allow additional generation to be connected by improving the voltage regulation on the system. These are not widely used in the UK but are considered to provide significant benefits. First generation micro-grid controllers will soon be available which will provide a control interface between generators and the primary substations to enable system voltages to be controlled more accurately. Reactive power compensators have been used to allow the connection of distributed generation but their application may be limited due to the relatively high unit cost. A number of areas were identified where additional work may be required to remove potential barriers to the connection of additional generation. The successful connection and operation of large quantities of distributed generation will require a high speed reliable communications network to be established. No standards were identified which cover communications protocols between the substation and remote devices on the distribution system.
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Glossary
ACCC ACSR AVC CERTS CHP DC DCHP DFIG DG DNO DTI EMS ENA EPRI EPSRC ESQCR FACTS FCL GTI HSE HTS HV HVDC IEE Aluminium Conductor Composite Core Aluminium Core Steel Reinforced Automatic Voltage Control Consortium for Electric Reliability Technology Solutions Combined Heat and Power Direct Current Domestic Combined Heat and Power Doubly Fed Induction Generator Distributed Generation Distribution Network Operator Department of Trade and Industry Energy Management System Electricity Networks Association Electric Power Research Institute Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations (2002) Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System Fault Current Limiter Gas Technology Institute Health and Safety Executive High Temperature Superconductor High Voltage High Voltage Direct Current Institution of Electrical Engineers
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IEC ISDN IT MEMS MVAr MW NGC NREL PLC PV R&D RTU SCADA STACOM SVC TCP-IP UI VAR XLPE
International Electro technical Commission Integrated Service Digital Network Information Technology Micro Electromechanical Systems Mega Volt Amperes Reactive Megawatts National Grid Company National Renewable Energy Laboratory Programmable Logic Controller Photo Voltaic Research and Development Remote Terminal Unit Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition STATic COMpensator Static Var Compensator Transmission Control Protocol - Internet Protocol Universal Interface Volt Amperes Reactive Cross Linked Polyethylene
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1.
INTRODUCTION
PB Power was commissioned by Future Energy Solutions, acting on behalf of the DTI, to undertake a study into new distribution technologies. The scope of the study was intended to identify new or emerging technologies that would have the potential to allow increased levels of distributed generation to be connected to the network, as detailed in the study brief contained in Appendix A. The technologies to be covered included: Primary and secondary plant infrastructure including o o o o o Switchgear Transformers Overhead lines and cables SVCs, FACTs devices etc Fault current limiters
SCADA systems including o o o Telecommunications IT Substation automation
Only network related technologies have been covered, generation related technologies have been omitted except where they form part of a wider system, for example in a microgrid system. All the technologies investigated were to have the potential to be commercially viable or cost effective by 2010. Any technologies that were in use elsewhere in the world have been included, technologies already in use in the UK have been largely excluded. The study has been undertaken by investigating a number of sources as follows: Literature review Internet searches Discussions with other PB Power Specialists Questionnaires and interviews with manufacturers
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References to published material and websites are provided at the end of this report. The manufacturers questionnaire is presented in Appendix B whilst written responses are contained in Appendix C. The results of the research have been classified into different functional groups to aid comparison between similar technologies. The potential advantages and disadvantages have been identified, as well as timescales for availability and benefits where available. Costs have not been included in this study as none were available for products in development and few were provided for products currently available. PB Power did, however, take a view on which technologies were likely to be commercially available and cost-effective by 2010, based on the published literature and the interviews with manufacturers.
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2.
STUDY METHODOLOGY
2.1
Literature Searches
The literature searches were based on three sources: Public domain material identified in the project scope Public domain material currently held by PB Power Public domain material obtained from the internet searches
The documents obtained were checked for references to new technologies as well as manufacturers, research programmes and references to other work. Useful references were then followed up to increase the spread of the search. Colleagues within PB Power and Parsons Brinckerhoff in the US, UK and Australia were contacted to identify new technologies and also existing technologies employed outside of the UK.
2.2
Internet Searches
A number of search techniques were utilised to identify potential material for input to the literature searches and manufacturers questionnaires. These included: Internet search engines Manufacturers web sites The IEE Discussion Forums
The results of the internet searches led to literature reviews, further internet searches as well as providing more detailed information on manufacturers, their products and R&D activities.
2.3
Questionnaires and Interviews
A list of manufacturers was compiled from the results of the literature and Internet searches. Two questionnaires were then compiled as detailed in Appendix B. One was sent to companies with a UK office and the second questionnaire was sent out to companies with no UK offices.
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Where possible meetings were arranged to discuss the questionnaire, outline the companies product development plans and determine the types of products that the companies expected to develop and be in production before 2010. Meetings were held with the following companies: ABB AREVA Remsdaq Econnect
Discussions were also held with a variety of other companies and institutions that were either developing or marketing distribution products. The data requested was product dependent but included budget costs and product specifications. The results of these enquiries are contained in Appendix C. The companies and institutions contacted were as follows: Eve Group Ltd (UK) / Composite Technology Corporation Inc (US) University of Canterbury (NZ) / CanterburyTX (NZ) Wilson Transformers (UK) / Dynamic Rating Equipment (AUS) American Superconductors
Approaches were also made to the following companies but at the time of writing the report, no response had been received. Southwire Waukesha Electric Nexans
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3.
QUESTIONNAIRES INTERVIEWS A ND QUESTIONNAIRES
3.1
Interviews
Interviews were conducted with four manufacturers to discuss their current R&D programmes and products. Specific technology details have been documented in sections 4 and 5 whilst the outcome of more general discussions is detailed below. An interview was also conducted with Prof. N Jenkins and Prof. G Strbac of the University of Manchester.
3.2
ABB
ABB are
Discussions were held at ABBs Stone offices on the 12 October 2004. engaged in a wide range of R&D activities including:
Primary plant e.g. switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses and cables etc FACTs technologies, including HVDC Light Insulation materials Test procedures Sensor technologies Materials technologies including nanotechnology SCADA and EMS systems
Due to the wide range of R&D activities undertaken by ABB, only those of most relevance to increasing generation capacity on distribution systems have been considered. These are described below and in sections 4 and 5. SVCs, FACTs and STATCOMs, detailed in section 4.4 Switchgear and fault current limiters, detailed in section 4.5 SCADA Systems and Substation Automation, detailed in section 5.2 Nanotechnology o ABB is working in partnership with the Rensselaer Nanotechnology Institute in New York to develop improvements in materials technologies. It is envisaged that this will produce materials with improved mechanical and electrical properties giving lower losses, enhanced insulation characteristics, improved electromagnetic
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performance as well as giving cost and weight savings. No details were provided in relation to potential products, production dates or costs. Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) o ABB is working in partnership with three overseas institutions to develop MEMS for sensors and instrumentation based on integrated circuit technology. No specific applications were provided although the technology is expected to benefit the power industry. No details were provided in relation to potential products, production dates or costs.
A number of other issues were discussed and these are summarised below: The lead-time from the inception of a research or development project to the availability of a commercial product can be 10 years or more. The development of a new product would have to be at an advanced stage now in order for it to be available before 2010. Research is generally market led. If a market cannot be identified then there is little chance of undertaking any required R&D. Some form of feedback from network operators is therefore required in order to identify potential markets and needs early enough to allow products to be developed. Any requirement to comply with UK-specific standards (e.g. ENAs Technical Specifications) as opposed to international IEC standards increases production costs and reduces the scope for product development.
3.3
AREVA AREVA
Discussions were held at AREVAs Stafford offices on the 13th October 2004. AREVAs current R&D activities of interest to this study are described in sections 4, 5 and other issues are described below: As with ABB, the R&D activities are generally market led. Both AREVA and ABB stated that with no clear indication of the future of the distribution systems, it was difficult to identify market needs. Any requirement for UK specific standards was also considered to raise issues with regard to global product development.
3.4
Econnect
Discussions were held at Econnects Hexham offices on the 20 October 2004. Econnects current R&D activities of interest are described in sections 4 and 5.
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3.5
Remsdaq
Discussions were held with Remsdaq at PB Powers Manchester offices on the 7 October 2004. Remsdaqs current R&D activities of interest are described in sections 4 and 5.
3.6
University of Manchester
Discussions were held with Prof. N Jenkins and Prof. G Strbac at the University of Manchester on the 15 November 2004. The results of these discussions are contained in sections 4 and 5 with other general issues described below: The requirement for energy storage system was not considered to be necessary before 2010, due to insufficient levels of wind generation and high costs making the technology prohibitively expensive, and suitable for only the most valuable loads.
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4.
TECHNOLOGIES PRIMARY PLANT TECHNOLOGIES
4.1
Introduction
This section presents the results and analysis of the various searches for new technologies applicable to primary plant. The primary plant technologies have been classified under the following groups: Transformers Overhead lines and cables SVCs, FACTs and STATCOMs Switchgear and Fault Current Limiters
The results of the research for each group are presented in the following sections. Generation related technologies have been excluded from these studies. The range of equipment considered is from 240V up to and including 132kV.
4.2
Transformers
The main area of R&D for transformer design is in the development of superconducting windings. These utilise high temperature superconducting (HTS) material cooled by affordable liquid nitrogen.
4.2.1
Developments
4.2.1.1 AREVA AREVA is currently developing several new transformer technologies. Solid-state tap changers are under development. These could be retrofitted to existing transformers or could be fitted to new transformers. The main advantage could be the improved reliability and lower maintenance requirements over existing mechanical devices. It is expected that the tap changers would have full reverse power capability. A two-position tap changer is also being developed for smaller distribution transformers. This would give an increased range of operation by providing low/high load positions, winter/ summer or load/generation positions. It was not disclosed whether these could be retrofitted to existing transformers with off-load or fixed taps. No details of the tap step size were provided. A large step size may restrict operation in order to comply with Engineering Recommendation P28.
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4.2.1.2 Other Companies and Institutions The EPSRC SuperGen Initiative1 claims limited benefits from superconducting transformers. The main benefits are from the reduced size and reduced environmental hazards. Due to the high efficiency of conventional transformers the reduced losses of HTS transformers are not considered a major advantage. The University of Canterbury (NZ) is in the process of developing an HTS transformer in conjunction with CanterburyTX2. A resonating high voltage transformer has already been constructed and utilised for testing other HV transformers. Advantages of the HTS transformer are the use of liquid nitrogen as both a coolant for the HTS windings and as a dielectric as opposed to oil. This reduces the environmental hazards and fire risks. A special core design substantially reduces stray electric and magnetic fields, thereby reducing interference with other equipment. The current carrying capacity is higher, meaning that a HTS transformer could have four times the rating of a conventional identically sized transformer. Voltage regulation is improved due to the lower leakage reactance reducing the requirement for a tap changer. Fault levels would be increased however. No cost indications or expected manufacturing dates have been given. Waukesha Electric Systems (US)3 is also developing an HTS transformer in its dedicated R&D facility. Few details are given other than the perceived benefits of reduced size and weight, no environmental or fire safety hazards, extended lifetime, greater efficiency and 100% continuous overload capability. No cost indications or expected manufacturing dates have been given. SF6 insulated transformers are currently available from Mitsubishi Electric Ltd4. They are available over a voltage range of 11kV to 33kV with a reduced footprint compared to conventional dry-type transformers. Dynamic Ratings (AUS)5 has developed dynamic transformer rating equipment that provides the ability to utilise the full overload capability of the transformer. Optical fibre temperature measurement is employed to determine the winding temperature and provide an input to the dynamic rating and insulation ageing software. The system provides transformer load monitoring and control, although the method of controlling the load is not stated. A full system replaces all existing transformer control equipment, including the AVC control and the pump and fan controls. It can be fitted to new transformers or retrofitted to existing transformers. Development work is being undertaken on more advanced equipment. Existing products have recently been installed on transformers on the Kansas City system in the US and a few transformers in the UK. Although the technology is not new to the UK, it is not in widespread use. It is being marketed in the UK by Wilson Transformers Ltd, an Australian manufacturer. Cooper Industries6 manufacture in-line voltage regulators for 2.4kV to 34.5kV systems. These provide a 32 step 10% tap range with ratings between 33kVA and 1MVA in both directions. They are placed in series on a distribution circuit and provide accurate voltage regulation of the downstream circuit section. These devices have
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been used by SP Powersystems in North Wales to allow increased amounts of generation to be installed. They have also been installed by Scottish Hydro on the 11kV and 33kV systems, mainly to control the voltage profile on long circuits. They have also been used to allow generation to be connected although problems were experienced when loads and generators were connected onto the same circuit. For this reason small SVCs are now being installed where required. They have been included in this report as their use in the UK is not thought to be widespread. In-line voltage regulators are in more common use in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland where loads may be sparser than in Great Britain. Guidance on their use is provided in ETR 126 Guidelines for Actively Managing Voltage Levels Associated with the Connection of a Single Distributed Generation Plant7.
4.2.2
Review
HTS transformers are currently being developed by a number of companies and institutions. They have a significantly higher power rating for the same footprint as a conventional oil-filled or cast resin transformer. This may avoid the need to relocate existing substations or build additional substations to accommodate load growth. Fewer substations could therefore supply a wider area or increased load transfers could be accommodated at lower voltage levels. Lower environmental hazards would be realised due to the use of liquid nitrogen as opposed to oil, minimising fire risks and disposal issues. There would be less requirement for a tap changer on an HTS transformer due to the lower reactances resulting in a low voltage drop. This would improve reliability by reducing the maintenance but would also increase fault levels. Disadvantages envisaged are more expensive cooling arrangements and higher plant costs due to the use of superconducting materials. Integration into the existing system would be relatively easy due to the smaller footprint of the transformers, though space would be required for the cooling equipment. This equipment could however be common to a number of HTS transformers, cables and other plant such as fault current limiters (FCLs). All these developments would allow space to be made available at existing substations to accommodate additional switchgear or control equipment. Dynamic transformer rating equipment is currently available and in service on transformers between 50MVA and 333MVA, allowing closer control of the maximum transformer load than at present and a possible means of postponing reinforcement requirements. Potentially dynamic loading could increase the allowable loading by 10% to 20%. This figure would be dependent on ambient temperature, cooling efficiency and previous loading conditions. Dynamic loading could also reduce the allowable maximum loading under adverse conditions although under these circumstances remedial action such as load shedding might be required. In-line voltage regulators have been shown to allow the connection of additional generation but are not thought to be widely used in Great Britain.
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4.2.3
Summary
The following table summarises the features of the transformer technologies. Manufacturer Product or Technology Availability Advantages/Disadvantages
No tap wear allowing increased frequency of operation and faster voltage control. Full reverse power capability. Provides low/high load or load/generation positions for greater operational flexibility. Lower losses, smaller footprint, no oil required, and high overload capability. CanterburyTX Superconducting Power Transformers Under development More expensive cooling arrangements. Tap changer requirements reduced. Possibility of low maintenance but higher fault levels. Lower losses, smaller footprint, no oil required, and high overload capability. Waukesha Electric Systems Superconducting Power Transformers Under development More expensive cooling arrangements. Tap changer requirements reduced. Possibility of low maintenance but higher fault levels. Allows potentially higher loadings to be carried. Insulation ageing calculations also provided. Maximum loading dependent on environmental factors plus previous loading. Regulate distribution system voltages, reverse power capability. In very limited use in Great Britain. Smaller footprint than dry-type transformers.
Solid State Tap Changer AREVA Two Position Tap Changer
Under development
Under development
Dynamic Ratings
Dynamic Rating Equipment
In use
Cooper Industries Mitsubishi Electric Ltd
In-line Voltage Regulators SF 6 Distribution Transformers
In use
In use
4.3 4.3.1
Overhead Lines and Cables Developments
Superconductivity is also the main area of development for power cables. J. W. Ekin8 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Boulder, Colorado states that three superconducting cable projects are under construction in the US. The largest is
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a 600m, 2400A, 138kV cable being constructed by Nexans and American Superconductor for the Long Island Power Authority, New York. This is due to be energised by 2006. A three to seven fold increase in current carrying capacity is given for an HTS cable over a conventional identically sized copper cable. Cables are of hollow single core, coaxial or triaxial construction. Ohmic resistance (and losses) would be decreased which may increase fault levels. The EPSRC SuperGen Initiative1 claims limited benefits from superconducting cables. They would reduce the resistive transmission losses but the high costs and inefficient cooling would make such cables non-competitive compared to conventional underground cables or overhead lines. There may, however, be an application in congested urban areas where the higher power densities would allow greater power transfer along existing cable routes. Systems that monitor cable core temperature using optical fibres or thermocouples in order to provide a dynamic current rating are available from KEMA9. Thermocouples are fitted to existing cables where optical fibres are not available. This is carried out on a consultancy basis on selected cables. Mathematical modelling is undertaken to determine the cable performance under dynamic loading conditions and to provide information on insulation ageing. The Belgian transmission system owner, ELIA, has installed this system on a 150kV cable circuit in Brussels. Real time temperature data and overload capabilities can be accessed to allow greater operational flexibility10. NGC are installing similar technology on the new 400kV, 20km cable between Elstree and St Johns Wood11. Two optical fibres are built into the cable to provide continuous temperature monitoring. There are also developments in overhead line technology. Gap type conductors incorporate an annular gap between the steel core and the outer aluminium strands. The conductor is suspended by tensioning the steel core with the aluminium strands left slack. The conductor sag is therefore a function of the expansion of the steel core. Higher stringing tensions give lower sags which allow higher currents to be carried. These conductors are being installed by NGC to uprate existing circuits. A new overhead line conductor has been developed which is claimed to provide a 1.6 increase over conventional ACSR conductors12. In order to reduce the sag and provide higher ratings a conventional ACSR conductor is constructed with a pre-tensioned steel core. After the conductor has been constructed the tension is released in the steel core which causes the aluminium strands to slacken. During operation the steel core expands and takes up the slack in the aluminium conductor. This results in a lower sag and higher power rating. Conventional installation techniques are used which removes the need for the tower reinforcement that may be required when using gap type conductors. The new conductor has been used on 34 lines in Japan. Composite Technology Corporation (US) is producing an ACCC (Aluminium Conductor Composite Core) conductor that utilises a composite core in place of a steel or aluminium core13. The first commercial installation was completed in August 2004. The low thermal expansion coefficient of the core results in lower conductor sag and
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thereby allows higher operating temperatures. No special installation techniques are required. The rating given for an ACCC conductor is 1902A compared to 905A for the same size Drake conductor (approx 400mm 2 ACSR). The allowable operating temperature is increased from 75C up to 200C. Details of the discussions with the UK representative are given in Appendix C.
4.3.2
Review
Development activities for HTS cables have to date concentrated on the higher voltage levels and therefore it is envisaged that HTS cables would be most applicable to high voltage distribution (132kV) initially. Existing urban cable routes could be upgraded from conventional paper insulated cable to HTS cable giving an increased capacity in congested cable corridors. It is possible that the technology could be applied in the future since the 132kV cables currently installed can be short lengths from a terminal tower to a nearby substation. The additional cost of HTS cables may not provide sufficient benefits to the DNOs, as old or overloaded circuits could be upgraded using suitably rated XLPE cables. The cost may also limit the application of HTS cables to higher voltage levels. Dynamic conductor monitoring systems are currently available and are in use in Belgium. They have enabling increased current carrying capability by allowing cable hot spots to be identified and rectified. The system requires that the monitored cables are fitted with optical fibres and this may limit the number of applications. An alternative would be to incorporate temperature measuring fibres during manufacture although no manufacturers appear to have plans for this. Composite overhead conductors are currently available and have been installed at a number of locations. It is envisaged that they have the potential to increase the capacity of overhead lines by simply replacing existing conductors using conventional installation techniques and equipment. Composite conductors could be applied at any voltage level thereby assisting in the relief of bottlenecks, increasing transfer capacities and allowing increased loads and generation to be connected. The limitations of the North South transmission inter-connector may constrain the connection of new wind generation in Scotland.
4.3.3
Summary
The following table summarises the features of the cable and conductor technologies. Manufacturer Product or Technology Availability Advantages/Disadvantages
Lower losses, higher capacity for similar sized cables. Higher fault levels. More expensive cooling arrangements (compared to oil/gas filled cables).
Nexans
Superconducting Power Cables
Under trial in several installations
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Manufacturer
Product or Technology
Availability
Advantages/Disadvantages
May not provide significant increase in capacity, requires thermocouples to be fitted to existing cables or installation of new cables. Could be employed on future cables if manufacturers incorporate optical fibre temperature measurement into cables. Higher capacity for similar sized conductor, no special installations requirements, equally applicable at any voltage level.
KEMA
Dynamic Cable Rating Equipment
In use
Composite Technology Corporation
Composite Overhead Conductors
In use
4.4 4.4.1
SVCs, FACTs and STATCOMs Developments
4.4.1.1 ABB ABB currently produce FACTS and HVDC Light devices for high voltage transmission and distribution solutions. ABB is not developing similar devices for use at distribution voltage levels of 33kV and below as the company does not believe there is sufficient demand and the relatively high costs would present a significant barrier to their deployment. The ABB HVDC Light system provides a DC link of up to 100MW between two remote AC systems. This has been employed to connect a remote wind farm to the transmission system in Gottland, Sweden. The cable link is 70km long with a rating of 50MW at 80kV. A DC link was selected due to the difficultly in building a new transmission line as well as the ability of the system to improve power quality. 4.4.1.2 AREVA AREVA is in the final stages of developing a compact STATCOM, C-STATCOM. The first equipment is scheduled to go into service at the end of 2005. A single CSTATCOM cabin has a steady state rating of 10MVAr and up to five modules may be combined to give 50MVAr. The cabins will normally be connected to the power system via a tertiary transformer winding. Connection voltages are expected to range from 11kV to 132kV. The reactive power capability provides extremely fast voltage control improving voltage regulation, flicker and power quality. They can also reduce post fault oscillations and improve the ability to ride through faults. The addition of energy storage provides full four quadrant operation. The required output is maintained over a very wide voltage range whilst the dynamic capability of each module is twice the steady state rating. AREVA is also developing a new common range of SVCs that will be available for tendering at the beginning of the second quarter of 2005. These provide similar
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benefits to STATCOMs; however, the STATCOM has some superior characteristics whilst SVCs provide a lower cost solution. 4.4.1.3 Other Companies and Institutions American Superconductors14 manufacture a range of static and rotary power systems devices which are described below: D-VAR Dynamic VAR system similar to a STATCOM. Provides an instantaneous, continuous source of reactive power. Can be used to resolve voltage stability issues, increase transfer capabilities, minimise voltage flicker, improve fault ride through and improve steady state voltage regulation. Already in use providing up to 37 to 97MVAr of reactive power mainly in the US. Operates over 480V to 35kV with outputs of 1.0 to 8.0MVAr. SuperVAR an HTS synchronous condenser. Due to the use of an HTS field winding the unit is more efficient, compact and reliable compared to conventional synchronous condensers. A 10MVAr, 13.8kV unit is available with maintenance costs of <$10k per annum. It provides steady state voltage regulation, increases system inertia, responds to system transients and generates no harmonic currents. It also provides a fault level contribution. The transient rating is up to 8.0pu. D-SMES Distributed Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage system. Can inject real and reactive power into the system, up to 3MW and 8MVAr (18.4MVAR instantaneous) per unit. Fast response provides benefits during voltage collapse and instability on systems between 69-500kV. The ability to inject real power into the network may allow generators to ride through more severe faults or provide a smoother transition to and from island mode operation.
Scottish Hydro have installed SVCs at the distribution level in order to improve the voltage control when generators are connected to the system. These are being installed where in-line voltage regulators do not provide a wide enough range of operation to accommodate the opposing demands of load and generation.
4.4.2
Review
FACTs technologies provide the opportunity to provide both steady state and dynamic voltage support for a range of voltages and power levels. Power quality can be enhanced and the reactive power capabilities could be utilised to reduce network losses. The dynamic response could provide additional inertia or MVAr/voltage support to reduce the effect of faults on local generators. A variety of STATCOM products are available or due to go into production before 2010. These would provide improved steady state and dynamic voltage support for the network. Some manufacturers provide the facility for injecting real power into the network to improve the fault ride through characteristics.
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Distribution voltage SVCs are being installed by one DNO to overcome the limitations of in-line voltage regulators.
4.4.3
Summary
The following table summarises the features of the transformer technologies. Manufacturer Product or Technology
FACTS, HVDC Light, SVC
Availability
Provides steady state and dynamic MVAr capability reducing flicker, improving stability and regulation. Improves system voltage regulation, provides steady state and dynamic reactive capability. Energy storage capability for four quadrant operation. Provides steady state and dynamic MVAr capability reducing flicker, improving stability and regulation. Increases system inertia, no harmonic contribution, provides steady state regulation. Increases system fault levels.
ABB
In use
AREVA
C-STATCOM
Q4 2005
D-VAR (STATCOM) devices
In use
American Superconductors
SuperVAR HTS synchronous compensator
In use
D-SMES HTS Magnetic Energy Storage System
In use
Provides real and reactive power injection during transients. Fast response.
4.5 4.5.1
Switchgear and Fault Current Limiters Developments
4.5.1.1 ABB ABB is continuously developing its range of switchgear products, covering most distribution voltages. The main area of innovation is considered to be the use of new or alternative materials. This could lead to more compact cubicles allowing additional circuits to be installed in existing substations. This may generate interface problems with existing equipment such as the need to re-route the existing cables. There is also a possibility that cubicle sizes will increase if the use of SF6 as an insulator is discontinued due to environmental concerns. One barrier to the use of a manufacturers standard design equipment in the UK is the requirement for UK specific Energy Networks Association Switchgear Assessment Panel approval in addition to the internationally recognised standards. The UKspecific requirements largely stem from the need to meet the requirements of the
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ESQCR and the Distribution Code. For example UK equipment typically has more comprehensive interlocking than continental equipment. DNOs are however purchasing larger quantities of switchgear from continental manufacturers. An 11kV solid state circuit breaker has been developed and is installed at a substation in Switzerland. It is expected that these would operate faster than conventional circuit breakers. It has not reached the commercialisation state yet due to various issues including the cooling requirements and cost of the unit. An intelligent vacuum circuit breaker has been developed for medium voltage applications. This incorporates all the measurement, protection and control functions into the circuit breaker truck reducing the cabling required as well as providing an Internet communications interface. This would allow control and monitoring via a wide area corporate network or an Internet connection. The smaller size and reduced number of parts allows space and cost savings. This would allow extra circuits to be incorporated into existing substations whilst simplifying the installation requirements. 4.5.1.2 AREVA A magnetic type fault current limiter has been developed. The prototype working voltage ranges will be between 3.5kV and 33kV. 4.5.1.3 Other Companies and Institutions Nexans15 have recently installed a 10MVA capacity HTS fault current limiter (FCL) on an RWE 10kV network in Germany in May 2004. The next stage of development is for a 110kV unit. HTS FCLs exhibit rapid resistance or reactance changes above defined current limits. Excessive current levels force a change of state from superconducting to resistive which results in a lower fault current. Conventional circuit breakers and protection relays can then be used to isolate the faulted equipment. EPRI is sponsoring a project16 to demonstrate an HTS FCL suitable for use on a 138kV transmission network. The beta test version, currently being developed by Nexans, is scheduled for installation in 2006 and will then undergo a one to two year test phase. The EPSRC SuperGen Initiaitive1 anticipates that the first superconducting application will be for fault current limiters that should be commercially available within 5 years. They react more rapidly than any circuit breakers and are regarded as essential to enable the incorporation of distributed generation into the grid system.
4.5.2
Review
Increased levels of distributed generation will typically result in increased system fault levels. Fault current limiters could be employed to reduce the need to upgrade switchgear fault ratings, and possibly allow the use of lower rated equipment in order to reduce costs. It is considered that they could make a significant contribution to allowing increased generation because of their ability to effectively split the network or control fault flows.
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The future generation of fault current limiters will be fail-safe. HTS FCLs are inherently fail-safe since the collapse of superconductivity is directly related to the current density. No external systems are required to initiate operation, indeed failure of an external system, such as the cooling, causes the FCL to operate. Development is in the advanced stages with several prototypes in use at various voltage levels. It is expected that these devices would be available by 2010. Installation of a FCL could avoid the requirement to replace entire switchboards, thereby reducing reinforcement costs. An intelligent 11kV circuit breaker has been developed which incorporates all the monitoring, control and protection functions inside the circuit breaker truck. All functions are available via an Internet type interface which reduces installation costs. New materials technologies are expected to provide smaller switchgear components due to improvements in insulation properties. This may allow more equipment to be installed in existing substations.
4.5.3
Summary
The following table summarises the features of the FCL technologies. Manufacturer Product or Technology
Switchgear Improvements based on new materials technologies ABB Medium Voltage Intelligent VCB Now
Availability
Not given
Smaller cubicle sizes, therefore more feeders per substation
Incorporates measurement, protection and control functions into circuit breaker truck. Control and monitoring via internet interface. Faster operation and reduced maintenance Failsafe operation, allows system operation at higher fault levels. Can avoid the need for asset replacement. Allows increased levels of generation to be connected.
Solid State Circuit Breaker
Not given
AREVA
Superconducting Fault Current Limiters
Under development
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Manufacturer
Product or Technology
Availability
Allows system operation at higher fault levels. Can avoid the need for asset replacement. Allows increased levels of generation to be connected. Fail safe operation. Failsafe operation, allows system operation at higher fault levels. Can avoid the need for asset replacement. Allows increased levels of generation to be connected.
Magnetic Fault Current Limiter
Under development
Nexans
Superconducting Fault Current Limiters
Under trial in several installations
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5.
TECHNOLOGIES SECONDARY PLANT TECHNOLOGIES
5.1
Introduction
This section presents the results and analysis of the various searches for new technologies applicable to secondary plant. The technologies covered by secondary plant technologies include: SCADA Systems and Substation Automation Communications Systems
Generation related technologies have been excluded from these studies except where they form part of a wider system.
5.2 5.2.1
SCADA Systems and Substation Automation Developments
5.2.1.1 ABB ABB 17 have developed a range of SCADA software and automation equipment which is currently available and in use around the world. Advanced features are readily available which allow a fully integrated network management system to be developed. Optional functionality includes outage management, network planning, optimal power flow and reliability analysis. Future developments include the integration of real time software for energy trading whilst Internet technology is used to allow operation from a wide range of devices. The range of equipment varies from large centralised SCADA systems to distributed units for individual substations. Although the equipment is already is use in the UK it is not thought by the manufacturers that the full capabilities of the various systems are used. This may be due to the network operators not purchasing the additional features or not having suitably qualified engineers to take advantage of the increased functionality. It was considered that developing countries often made better use of the advanced product features in place of installing additional substation equipment. 5.2.1.2 AREVA AREVA are developing the next generation SCADA and Energy Management Applications incorporating the specific DER requirements under its e-terra platform. This is a modularised and fully integrated, object orientated system which incorporates a wide range of advanced features such as market trading interface, wind farm prediction and optimal Voltage-VAR Control schemes. The system will, when complete, allow direct control of all system devices from circuit breakers to individual wind turbines and FACTS devices. The software incorporates
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the required protocol interface to each individual device, employing standard state of the Art Ethernet TCP-IP OPC and IEC61850 based protocols. Control is provided at all levels, from individual generator controls, control of a specific area to system wide voltage and power controls. These controls range from simple open/close to more sophisticated coordinated distributed MW or MVAR control schemes incorporatingtap changers, DFIG, Statcom, Micro CHP, and any controllable loads.. Any type of device could be incorporated into the system providing it had a suitable interface. This includes any wind turbines or other generators such as PV, micro CHP etc. The system operates over a fast Ethernet 100Mbit./s communications network with peer to peer communication between devices to achieve fast automation within the plant. The system is also open to include extra software applications required for any commercially driven control required in the future (for example reactive power ancillary services). 5.2.1.3 Econnect Econnect18 have developed a range of solutions to manage voltage rise issues that allow increased levels of distributed generation to be connected. The principal system is called GenAVC which is designed to improve the voltage regulation on distribution systems incorporating generators. GenAVC works in conjunction with standard automatic voltage control (AVC) relays on the tap changers of 33kV/ 11kV (primary) transformers. State estimation software is run on an industrial pc platform holding a model of the network and receiving inputs of real and reactive power flows and voltages on all feeders connected to the primary substation, and also inputs of power and voltage information at the DG site. Two sets of trials are currently underway, one on a section of 11kV network in EDF Energys Eastern network, and one on United Utilities Carlisle network. Each network contains a DG scheme. Econnects studies indicate that GenAVC could double the amount of generation that could be connected to a network. It is expected to be in production in approximately 12 months. Other Econnect solutions for voltage rise issues include the GenV control system that can control the MW and MVAr output of a generator to response to the network voltage. GenV is most appropriate for smaller generation projects when the probable occurrence of constraint conditions due to voltage rise is low. Econnects established range of load controllers for autonomous operation on islanded networks is being further developed to incorporate embedded communications ability to control on-site loads. These loads may be controlled as part of a voltage rise mitigation, or to maximise on-site usage of own generation, displacing more expensive bought-in energy. These new products will be field tested in early 2005, with a target for market readiness of September 2005. Both power line carrier and low power radio communication options will be available to suit a wide range of applications.
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5.2.1.4 Remsdaq Remsdaq19 are currently marketing an advanced RTU system called CallistoIES which is currently used by a number of UK utilities and generators. Briefly it provides various control and monitoring functions for a variety of devices including interfaces to capacitor banks and wind turbine control systems. Strictly this system is outside the scope of this study since it is in use in the UK, however it has been included as an example of existing technologies which could be further developed. 5.2.1.5 University of Manchester It was considered that the installation of active network management systems would require the development of more sophisticated software tools, both to provide real time system operation and to allow the networks to be designed and studied by the planning departments. Additional research and development would be required on systems to automatically dispatch distributed generation on a continuous basis in response to measured system data. It is likely that active network systems would be autonomously controlling discrete sections of networks and therefore robust algorithms would be required. In addition software tools would be required for use by the DNOs and developers in order to design and study such networks. The university believes that large numbers of active networks may not be developed or required before 2010 as there would be limited levels of generation at the lower distribution voltages (11kV and below). and 5.2.1.6 Other Companies and Institutions The reliability of the DNOs existing SCADA equipment and communications networks was seen as a significant barrier to the use of such systems for controlling more sophisticated networks20. The speed of operation would also make existing communications channels unsuitable for the control of large number of generators.
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A large number of research projects have been identified which are aiming to develop intelligent micro-grid controllers. A micro-grid controller can be considered as an advanced RTU which provides a common controller for a discrete section of distribution network. Features vary but all systems essentially combine an interface to the various generators, transducers, transformers etc and a controller, or series of controllers, that co-ordinate the control of generation, local system voltages and power flows. Some of the various projects are described below: Reliable, Low Cost Distributed Generator/Utility System Interconnect21 Funded by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in conjunction with GE and Puget Sound Systems. Project objectives are to develop a standard-compliant generation and grid interconnect to overcome interconnection barriers, allow reliable system operation and achieve the full value of distributed generation. GE are developing a Universal Interconnect (UI) to provide a standard interface between any plant item and the remainder of the system. The project includes a micro-grid study from 2004 to test the UI devices. Innovative Distributed Power Interconnection and Control Systems22 Funded by the NREL in conjunction with the Gas Technology Institute (GTI) and Encorp Inc. Projective objectives are to develop key enabling technologies for cost effective distributed generation interconnection products, software and communications solutions by the end of 2005. Intelligent Solutions for Distributed Power Technology23 Funded by NREL in conjunction with Orion Engineering Corporation. Research objectives are to demonstrate a neural network control system for managing small distributed generation. Orion Engineering has developed a system called the Distributed Energy Neural Network Integration System (DENNIS) that effectively aggregates a number of small generators into a single larger virtual generator. Control of the generator dispatch is based on real time electricity prices, individual demand profiles, state of discharge of storage devices and weather conditions (to modify demand data). Consortium for Electric Reliability Technology Solutions24 (CERTS) CERTS is a group of research institutions, headed by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, who are undertaking research on micro-grid solutions, as well as other fields. To date research has focused mainly on micro-grid modelling tools, dynamic generator characteristic and data collection. Field trials of a three generator micro-grid installation are planned for 2004 to validate the research findings. There do not appear to be any plans yet to produce marketable products.
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5.2.2
Review
The reliability and speed of operation of existing SCADA systems and communications networks are seen as barriers to the control and operation of large quantities of distributed generation. The main areas of R&D activities are based around micro-grid network controllers to actively control a discrete section of distribution network. Simplified versions which provide limited functionality are currently available and in use, both in the UK and overseas. The next stage of development could provide Plug and Play type generation interfaces providing an standardised control, monitoring and metering interconnection to the network. These would interface to micro-grid controllers that co-ordinate the operation of all the plant on a section of network. Current programmes indicate that such devices could be available after 2006. Several SCADA/EMS systems are currently available that provide advanced functionality. These integrate all the system components and make them accessible via a database for control and monitoring purposes. Advanced features include wind speed prediction, wind farm control, network voltage and MVAr control etc. Although some of these systems are already in use in the UK the advanced features are not widely used, if at all. RTU devices are becoming more advanced and provide PLC type functionality. These would allow greater integration and control of components connected to the substation. They could implement all the lower level control and monitoring functionality required for control of the local distribution system in response to higher level control from a centralised system. Such devices are already being used in the UK. Intelligent generation controllers are under development which would provide a coordinated voltage control system for distribution networks incorporating generators. Optimal power flow routines would be built in to identify the best generator dispatch based on system loading and predicted wind resources. The system could be used to provide a localised control system responsible for real time network operation, communicating at a high level with a centralised DNO control system. Load controllers are being developed to implement automatic load shedding schemes for weak and islanded networks. This system may not allow additional generation to be added to a system.
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5.2.3
Summary
The following table summarises the features of the SCADA and substation automation technologies. Manufacturer Product or Technology Availability Advantages/Disadvantages
Fully integrated solutions with advanced functionality. In use DNOs may only be using the basic product features. Fully integrated system allowing control over all system devices from individual generators to system wide power control. Wide variety of communications protocols and media. Interfaces with various plant items, both local and remote. Flexible inbuilt intelligence, possible to automatically schedule generation, change transformer taps etc. Provides voltage set-point adjustment for systems with embedded generators. May double amount of generation that could be connected. Automatic control of loads to provide some voltage rise mitigation and/ or maximise on-site usage of energy/ minimum bought-in energy to provide economic benefit. Range being extended to cover grid connected applications.
ABB
SCADA, EMS Systems
AREVA
e-terra SCADA/EMS
In use
Remsdaq
CallistoIES
In use
GenAVC
Approximately 12 months
Econnect Load Controller Approximately 10 months
5.3 5.3.1
Communications Systems Developments
None of the searches have identified any major developments in communications technology. This may be because the communications systems are not seen as a barrier to implementing new technologies. Current products and research use existing communications technologies such as Ethernet and similar. For example, AREVA has carried out R&D on new Ethernet Hub technology, to extend Ethernet 100Mbit/s over WAN configurations, and site configurations similar to windfarms. New products such as the Remsdaq CallistoIES 19 can communicate over a large number of proprietary protocols (e.g. AREVA K series relays) using virtually any media such as ISDN, optical fibres, microwave, radio or satellite links.
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A wide variety of communications technologies are currently available which can provide high speed links over a number of media with varying ranges. Ethernet, optical fibres and microwave links can provide secure high speed communications channels. Radio links such as Bluetooth can provide short range links within substations. Although communication links may be sparse in rural areas the range of existing technologies is considered capable of providing adequate, fast and secure links between distributed plant items. Communications channels may need to be established between new and existing plant in order to take advantage of the latest developments in automation and control systems. AREVA questioned whether the existing communications protocols are suitable for use into the future. The communications protocols must be capable of handling the wider range of devices that are expected to be connected to the distribution system. The communications systems must also be capable of handling the larger amounts of data in timescales that allow an adequate level of network control. It is envisaged that all devices connected to the system would have to incorporate an industry standard interface to eliminate compatibility problems between the DNOs and consumers equipment. IEC61850, Communications Networks and Systems in Substations25 provides a communications system for substation control, monitoring and protection functions. It covers communications between all substation devices from intelligent circuit breakers to non-conventional instrument transformers up to the bay level and station level control functions. No IEC standard was identified which specified a communications systems for devices outside the substation. Existing SCADA communications networks are seen as a significant barrier to the integration of large quantities of distributed generation, as detailed in section 5.2.1.6.
5.3.2
Review
No major communications related research projects or product developments were identified during the various searches. Existing communications technologies are being utilised in the development of new products and research activities. The principal communications barrier is considered to be the physical installation of a reliable, high speed network using existing technologies, in order to overcome the limitation of existing systems. The suitability of the existing communication protocols may need to be examined to ensure compatibility between the DNOs and consumers equipment.
5.3.3
Summary
No major R&D projects related to communications technologies have been identified.
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The main communications barrier to increasing generation is considered to be upgrading the existing slow and unreliable SCADA communications networks with a high speed reliable infrastructure. Communications protocols may need to be revised to prevent incompatibility between the wide range of new devices that may be connected to the system. IEC61850 provides a communications standard for all substation components but no standard was identified to cover the communications required between the substation and devices located elsewhere on the distribution system.
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6.
RESULTS PRIMARY PLANT RESULTS SUMMARY
This sections details the manufacturers and their technologies with likely benefits from section 4 in tabular format. It should be noted that the results column Potential to Allow Increased Generation are subjective. Factors considered when determining the potential are the ability to resolve voltage regulation, reverse power flow and fault level issues. Technologies which relieve system bottlenecks have been classified as having a lower potential to allow additional generation to be connected. Perceived costs have also been taken into consideration.
6.1
Transformers
Product/ Technology Potential to Allow Allow Increased Generation Applicability to UK Network Implementation Barriers
Manufacturer
Benefits
Timescales
Solid State Tap Changer AREVA Two Position Tap Changer
Low
Voltage range not known
Lower maintenance, full reverse power capability, faster switching, more frequent tap operation. Gives low/high load or load/generation tap positions to accommodate increased load/generation.
Under development
Not known
Medium
Under development
Not known
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Manufacturer
Product/ Technology
Potential to Allow Allow Increased Generation
Applicability to UK Network
Benefits
Implementation Barriers
Timescales
CanterburyTX
Superconducting Power Transformers
Medium
Increased substation capacities due to smaller footprint.
Product under development. Cost and lead time to large scale production. Possibility of increased fault levels. Product under development. Cost and lead time to large scale production. Possibility of increased fault levels.
Not known
Waukesha Electric Systems
Superconducting Power Transformers
Medium
Not known
Dynamic Ratings
Dynamic Rating Equipment
Low to medium
All
Allows transformers to be operated closer to their maximum ratings Improved voltage regulation of distribution circuits. Reverse power capability.
Minimal
Available now
Cooper Industries
In-line Voltage Regulators
High
2.4kV to 34.5kV
None
Available now
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Manufacturer
Product/ Technology
Potential to Allow Allow Increased Generation
Benefits
Timescales
Mitsubishi Electric Ltd
SF 6 Distribution Transformers
Medium
11kV to 33kV
None
In use
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6.2
Overhead Lines and Cables

Product/ Technology Potential to Allow Increased Generation Applicability to UK Network Implementation Barriers
Manufacturer
Benefits
Timescales
Nexans
Superconducting Power Cables
Medium
Initially 132kV and above due to costs
Increased circuit capacities, reduction of voltage regulation problems. Lower losses.
Installation costs would be higher than for existing cables. Cost and lead time to large scale production. May increase fault levels.
Not known
Provides actual cable rating based on installation conditions. KEMA Dynamic Cable Rating Equipment Low All Could be employed on future cables if manufacturers incorporate optical fibre temperature measurement into cables Higher ratings possible without constructing new circuits. Installation methods identical to existing conductors.
May not provide significant increase in capacity, requires retrofitting to existing cables or installation of new cables.
Available now
Composite Technology Corporation
Composite Overhead Conductors
Medium
Initially 132kV and above due to cost
Cost intended to provide cost saving over GAP type conductors
Available now
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6.3
SVCs, FACTS and STATCOMs

Manufacturer
Benefits
Timescales
ABB
FACTS, HVDC Light, SVC
Medium
132kV and above.
Improves steady state and dynamic performance of the network Improves steady state and dynamic performance of the network.
Substation space. Available now Cost.
AREVA
C-STATCOM
Medium
11kV to 132kV
Can include energy storage to give four quadrant operation. 10MVAr modules up to 50MVAr Improved power quality, steady state and dynamic voltage control. 1.0 to 8.0MVAr capability
Substation space. Q4 2005 Cost.
American Superconductor s
D-VAR (STATCOM) devices
Medium
480V to 35kV
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Manufacturer
Product/ Technology
Potential to Allow Increased Generation
Benefits
Timescales
SuperVAR HTS synchronous compensator
Medium
13.8kV
Improved power quality, steady state and dynamic voltage control. 10.0MVAr with up to 8.0pu transient rating. Dynamic delivery of real and reactive power during fault conditions allowing possibility of generator fault ride though and islanding. 3MW and 8MVAr capability.
American Superconductor s D-SMES HTS Magnetic Energy Storage System Low to medium 69kV to 500kV
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6.4
Switchgear and Fault Current Limiters

Manufacturer
Benefits
Timescales
Switchgear Improvements based on new materials technologies
Not known
Not known
More compact switchgear allowing more circuits per substation
Development of new materials
Not known
ABB Medium Voltage Intelligent VCB Low 11kV
Measurement, control and protection functions all incorporated into circuit breaker. Internet type interface allows remote control of all functions Faster operation, reduced maintenance. Allows increased fault levels and therefore increased distributed generation. Failsafe operation
None
Available now
Solid State Circuit Breaker
Low
Not known
Design issues to resolve
Not known
AREVA
Superconducting Fault Current Limiter
High
3.5kV to 35kV
Not known
Not known
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Manufacturer
Product/ Technology
Benefits
Timescales
AREVA
Magnetic Fault Current Limiter
High
3.5kV to 35kV
Allows increased fault levels and therefore increased distributed generation. Fail safe operation. Fail safe control of fault levels. May reduce reinforcement costs.
Not known
Not known
Nexans
Superconducting Fault Current Limiter
High
Not known
Cost. Substation space. Cooling equipment.
Possibly 5 years to commercial availability
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7.
RESULTS SECONDARY PLANT RESULTS SUMMARY
This sections details the manufacturers and their technologies with likely benefits from section 5 in tabular format. It should be noted that the results column Potential to Allow Increased Generation are subjective. Factors considered when determining the potential are the ability to control increasing quantities of distributed generation. Technologies which relieve system bottlenecks have been classified as having a lower potential to allow additional generation to be connected.
7.1
SCADA Systems and Substation Automation

Manufacturer
Benefits
Timescales Timesc ales
ABB
SCADA, EMS Systems
High
All voltages
Fully integrated solutions with advanced functionality. Fully integrated system allowing control over all system devices from individual generators to system wide power control. Integrated control and monitoring of multiple plant items. Wide range of communications protocols and media
DNOs may only be using the basic product features.
Available now
AREVA
e-terra SCADA/EMS
High
All voltages
None
Available now
Remsdaq
CallistoIES
High
Already in use
None
Available now
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Manufacturer
Product/ Technology
Benefits
Timescales Timesc ales
Econnect
GenAVC
Medium
11kV
Can allow up to a doubling of size of DG schemes. Provides adjustment of voltage set points to optimise the network voltages.
Acceptance of new concept by DNOs. Development of 5-6MW schemes for 11kV connection.
Ready for installation end 2005
Econnect
Load Controller
Low to medium
All voltages. Suited to islanded and interconnecte d grids (especially weak systems)
Automatic load shedding system to mitigate voltage rise issues and maximise use of on-site generated electricity
Under development
September 2005
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8.
CONCLUSIONS
8.1
Transformers
Superconducting transformers are currently under development with no firm dates or costs given for production units. It is considered that some units may be available before 2010. There would be issues arising from the cooling system such as the increased complexity and requirement for liquid nitrogen supplies. There would be environmental benefits as insulating oils would not be required. They may allow additional generation to be connected due to their improved voltage regulation characteristics, but these would also result in higher fault levels. Solid state tap changers are being developed which may provide more flexible system operation. These may allow more generation to be connected if retrofitted to existing transformers with limited reverse power capability. Costs were not available but it is expected that production units would be available before 2010. Two position tap changers may also provide greater system flexibility, especially if they can replace existing fixed or off load tap changers. These would allow more generation to be connected due to the larger voltage range. Costs were not available but it is expected that production units would be available before 2010. Dynamic rating equipment would allow the full temperature range, and therefore power range, of transformers to be utilised. This equipment is in use outside the UK and can be retrofitted. It may allow increased levels of distributed generation, but only where network thermal capacity starts to constrain the allowable levels of generation. In-line voltage regulators have been shown to provide positive benefits and allowed the connection of additional generation. They are not in widespread use in the Great Britain but they have been included in this report due to the benefits provided.
8.2
Overhead Lines and Cables
Superconducting power cables have been developed and are undergoing trials. No costs or production dates were available. They would allow higher powers to be transferred along the same cable corridor which may have benefits in congested urban areas. The reduced impedance may allow more generation to be connected but the advantages over conventional cables are considered to be marginal. Dynamic conductor monitoring systems are in use outside the UK. They allow an accurate cable rating to be determined which may increase the power transfer capability of circuits. These systems may allow marginally more generation to be connected where there are high levels of connected generation.
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Composite overhead conductors would allow existing overhead circuits to be substantially up-rated. In areas where there is a high concentration of generation their use may allow more generation to be connected.
8.3
FACTS SVCs, FACTS and STATCOMs
A variety of SVC and STATCOM type devices are available and use around the world and in the UK at transmission voltage levels. Due to the cost these devices are normally employed at transmission level. Smaller more cost effective devices are becoming available which would allow improved steady state and dynamic system performance at distribution voltage levels. They could allow the connection of additional generation by improving the fault ride through capability and providing additional voltage regulation. The relatively high costs of these devices are considered to be a barrier, in the short term at least, to their widespread use in the UK. Distribution voltage SVCs are being installed by one DNO where in-line voltage regulators do not provide a sufficient degree of voltage control.
8.4
Switchgear and Fault Current Limiters
A number of superconducting FCLs are under development. It is expected that these would be available before 2010. They could allow significant amounts of additional generation to be connected to systems where there would otherwise be fault level issues. Intelligent circuit breakers are available which have all the necessary functionality built in including Internet type interfaces to allow remote operation. These would not directly allow more generation to be connected but may make new connections more cost effective. New material technologies are expected to provide more compact switchgear components that may result in the ability to install more equipment in existing substations. This in turn may allow the connection of more generation.
8.5
SCADA Systems and Substation Automation
Several organisations and institutions 21, 22, 23, 24 in the US are undertaking R&D on micro-grid network controllers. These would provide real time control for all active devices on a section of distribution network. They would provide an interface between the complexity of the distribution network and the centralised DNO control system. Such systems should provide a simplified system for connecting a variety of low voltage generators (DCHP, solar, micro wind etc) into a local distribution system. Centralised SCADA/EMS systems are being continually developed to provide more functionality. Advanced features include wind speed prediction, control of individual generators and wind farms and market modelling. The increased capabilities will allow additional generation to be more easily integrated into the existing system.
Page 39
Improved methods of controlling the tap changers of 33kV/ 11kV (primary) transformers are already developed and undergoing field trials on two distribution networks. Power measurements are used to control the primary transformer tap changer to enable the maximum generation to be connected whilst ensuring that all voltages are maintained within acceptable limits. Studies undertaken to date indicate that GenAVC could double the amount of generation that could be connected to a network. It is expected to be in production in approximately 12 months. Intelligent generation controllers are being developed that should allow improved voltage control for systems incorporating generators. By optimising generator operation the system should maximise the amount of generation that can be connected to the system.
8.6
Communications Systems
No major communications related R&D activities were identified as part of this report. New developments are utilising existing communications technologies to provide the functionality required. The main barrier to allowing increased amounts of generation is considered to be the development of the communications infrastructure to support the needs of the various technologies. Existing SCADA communications networks are considered to be unreliable and too slow for the control of significant quantities of distributed generation. As increased quantities of generation are installed a reliable, high speed communications network may need to be established in order to provide the DNO with sufficient levels of control and monitoring. The suitability of existing communications protocols may need to be examined to ensure compatibility between the DNOs and consumers equipment. IEC61850 specifies a communication standard for substation devices but not for devices located elsewhere on the distribution system.
8.7
Others
A first generation expert system has been developed to evaluate connections options for 11kV networks. Further software development and testing is underway to expand the range of applicable voltages to 132kV. The system examines the impact of proposed generation on voltage profiles and fault levels then identifies the most cost effective connection. More advanced design and analysis tools will be required in order that developers and DNOs can design and operate networks comprising active management systems and high levels of distributed generation more effectively.
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8.8
Summary
Most manufacturers R&D programmes are market led. Therefore products will only be developed if a market has been identified. Some manufacturers have reported issues with identifying customers needs and the uncertainty of future energy system policy changes. From the reviews undertaken it has been concluded that the most influential technologies, in terms of maximising the potential for new generation, that should be available before 2010 are: Super-conducting Fault Current Limiters o These devices would potentially remove any fault level issues where additional generation may result in existing switchgear being overstressed.
SVCs, FACTS and STATCOMs o These devices have been used to resolve voltage regulation issues where generation is present. They can also improve power quality but their high cost may restrict their application.
In-line Voltage Regulators (not yet in wide-spread use) o Although in-line voltage regulators are in use in the UK and therefore outside the scope of this report, it is considered that they can allow significant quantities of additional generation to be installed. This, together with their very limited use in the UK, has resulted in their inclusion.
Micro-grid Controllers o First generation controllers will soon be available which allow generators to be incorporated into distribution systems whilst maintaining satisfactory voltage control.
A number of areas were identified where further work may be required in order to remove any potential barriers to the connection of additional generation. These are: Communications Networks o The successful connection and operation of large quantities of distributed generation will require a high speed reliable communications network to be established.
Communications Protocols
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No standards were identified which covers communications protocols between the substation and remote devices on the distribution system.
The only overseas practice identified by manufacturers as being an improvement on current UK practice was making fuller use of SCADA/EMS product features to improve system operation and flexibility. Whilst this may allow additional generation to be installed and easily controlled, the combination of the existing SCADA and communications systems employed are not generally considered suitable for controlling large numbers of distributed generators.
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9.
REFERENCES
EPSRC SuperGen Initiative, Workshop on Future Technologies for a Sustainable Electricity System, November 2003, http://www.econ.cam.ac.uk/dae/Supergen-workshop/programme.html University of Canterbury website. http://www.comsdev.canterbury.ac.nz/news/2004/040310a.shtml Waukesha Electric Systems. http://www.waukeshaelectric.com/ Mitsubishi Electric Ltd, http://www.mitsubishielectric.com.hk/mehk/p&m/MAR/transform/sf6gis.htm Dynamic Ratings Selected by Kansas Utility, T&D World, July 2004 http://tdworld.com/mag/power_dynamic_ratings_selected Cooper Industries, http://www.cooperpower.com/Products/Voltage
Energy Networks Association, Engineering Technical Report 126, Guidelines for Actively Managing Voltage Levels Associated with the Connection of a Single Distributed Generation Plant, August 2004.
8
J. W. Ekin, Superconductors An Emerging Power Technology, 2004, http://www.boulder.nist.gov/div818/81803/publications/ekin/GDX(2004).pdf KEMA Dynamic Current Rating Optimisation, http://www.kema.com/ Extracting More Value with Intelligent Cable Systems, Transmission & Distribution World, Aug 1 2004 S. Sadler, 1600MVA Electrical Power Transmission with an EHV XLPE Cable System in the Underground of London, CIGRE 2004 H. Ishihara, Development of Pre-Stretch Type Up-Rating Conductor to Realise Cost Reductions, CIGRE 2004. Composite Technology Corporation, www.compositetechcorp.com American Superconductors, http://www.amsuper.com/ Nexans, http://www.nexans.com/internet/Welcome.nx Demonstration of a Superconducting Fault Current Limiter, EPRI, Project P122.003, http://www.epri.com/D2004/ ABB, www.abb.com Econnect, www.econnect.co.uk Remsdaq, www.remsdaq.com
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13
14
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16
17
18
19
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ScottishPower plc, Network Management Systems for Active Distribution Networks a Feasibility Study, K/EL/00310/REP, 2004. NREL, Reliable, Low Cost Distributed System Generator/Utility System Interconnect, www.nrel.gov/publications/ NREL, Innovative Distributed Power Interconnection and Control Systems, www.nrel.gov/publications/ NREL, Intelligent Solutions for Distributed Power Technology, www.nrel.gov/publications/ Consortium for Electric Reliability Technology Solutions, http://certs.lbl.gov/certs.html IEC61850, Communication Networks and Systems in Substations, 2003
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APPENDIX A
Study Brief
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New Technologies To Facilitate Increased Levels of Distributed Generation Study Brief Purposes of Study 1. To identify what new technologies are available or emerging (in UK and world-wide) to facilitate increased levels of Distributed Generation (DG) in the time frame to 2010 2. To provide a summary of the status of emerging technologies to help inform decisions about what further work might be appropriate in this area. Approach to Study The study will be carried out in three stages. Kick-off Meeting A draft study brief will be prepared prior to the kick-off meeting. This document will define the scope of the work required to undertake a structured and well-managed study. The Brief will describe the approach to the Study; Risks/Dependencies/Assumptions; Quality Assurance etc. At the kick-off meeting with the WS Project Manager, the study brief will be reviewed and approved, and the number of manufacturers to be interviewed will be agreed. Information Gathering This stage will comprise the bulk of the work. It will include the following activities: Identification of possible manufacturers/contacts and preparation of the questionnaire for the interview with manufacturers Review of international developments from the literature: DTI/DGCG commissioned reports, IEE, IEEE, CIGRE, Tyndall Centre, EPRI, web sources etc. Note will be taken in particular of earlier DGCG studies, Survey Study of Status and Penetration Levels of Distributed Generation (DG) in Europe and the US (stage one and two) by KEMA (K/EL/00306/02/REP) and Network Integration of Distributed Generation: International Research and Development by SPRU (K/EL/00307/REP) Discussions with specialists within PB Power Telephone discussions with academic contacts Administration of questionnaires and/or structured interviews with selected manufacturers
This will be a world-wide review. It is envisaged that the technologies to be covered would include primary and secondary plant infrastructure, telecommunications and IT. These technologies may not yet be fully developed, commercially available, or be cost effective, compared to more traditional approaches, but they should have the potential to be so by 2010. Existing technologies not currently employed in the UK will also be covered. Only network related technologies will be covered, ie generation related technologies will be omitted. Specific technologies to be addressed
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could include wind generator control systems, SVCs, FACTS and STACOM developments, superconducting fault current limiters, in-line voltage regulators, substation automation and integration of generator/voltage control, SCADA systems and associated communications. Manufacturers to be contacted could include the following: 1. ABB at Stone, Staffordshire for on-going developments in SVC (to stabilise voltage fluctuations and provide grid interconnection); FACTS devices for wind generator connections; Superconducting Fault Current Limiters etc 2. Siemens Power T&D Group at Manchester for developments in substation automation systems 3. Peter Brotherhood based at Peterborough for innovations in designing and manufacturing equipment for use in renewable energy applications 4. GE Wind Energy Systems for developments in wind turbines 5. VA Tech T&D for new switchgear developments 6. Eurowind Developments Limited for innovations in wind turbines 7. Alstom at Stafford 8. Thales Information Systems The manufacturers to be contacted will be determined from the document reviews and discussion with PB Power specialists in the UK and overseas. Rev iew and Reporting The final stage will consist of the following: Review of information gathered and preparation of DRAFT report Review of comments from Work Stream Preparation of Final Report The report will include: 1) Tabulations of manufacturers and their products/technologies. 2) Classification of these technologies into functional groups. 3) Review and discussion of each of these groups of technologies covering: their function and applicability to the UK system. their potential to integrate more generation the ease with which they could be incorporated into existing systems and any issues which would have to be addressed, their likely cost/benefit the timescales on which they are likely to become available a comparison of (advantages and disadvantages of) the different products / technologies competing within each group 4) Conclusions about the impacts these technologies could have within the timescale of interest.
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Information that is commercially sensitive to a manufacturer will be presented in an appendix or similar and would not be placed in the public domain. Reports would be produced in either Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat format as required by the workstream. Assumptions It is assumed that this work will build on previous reports delivered under the DTI New & Renewable Energy Programme, and will not go back over the same ground. Material presented in earlier reports will not have to be reiterated in detail. Risks A lot of the input for this report will come from the manufacturers. There will therefore be risks associated with the quality and timeliness of the information provided. There may also be difficulties in commercial confidentiality. This will be addressed by contacting the manufacturers ahead of sending the questionnaire and carrying out a structured interview, in order to identify the correct individual to approach, and to ensure that the purpose of the exercise is fully understood. The benefits to the manufacturer in contributing to the report will be highlighted, and any confidentiality concerns discussed and addressed. Any material which the manufacturers consider confidential will not be published in the public domain report but may be included in a restricted appendix. Staffing and QA
The majority of the work will be carried out by a senior engineer, Steve Ingram, who has experience of carrying out previous studies for the DTI N&RE Programme, and meeting the requirements of a DGCG workstream.
Guidance and peer review will be provided by Katherine Jackson and John Douglas. Katherine has managed other DTI N&RE projects, and John has extensive experience of distribution network technologies. Timescales It is intended to produce a Draft Final report by the 24 th September 2004 to allow it to be presented at the workstream meeting on the 30 th September. The Final version of the report will be issued in mid October, assuming that workstream comments are received within approximately two weeks. This will depend to some extent on the speed of response of the manufacturers
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APPENDIX B Questionnaires sent to Manufacturers
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APPENDIX B Questionnaires sent to Manufacturers

The following questionnaire was sent out to a number of manufacturers with UK offices.
Manufacturers Questionnaire
We have been asked by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the UK to establish the status of the new technologies that could influence the power distribution industry over the next ten years. The purpose of this study is to identify the potential new technologies that may be applied in the UK and to enable them to concentrate their R&D funding on technologies that may have a commercial future. Specifically the DTIs requirements are summarised as follows: This will be a world-wide review. It is envisaged that the technologies to be covered would include primary and secondary plant infrastructure, telecommunications and IT. These technologies may not yet be fully developed, commercially available, or be cost effective, compared to more traditional approaches, but they should have the potential to be so by 2010. Existing technologies not currently employed in the UK will also be covered. Only network related technologies will be covered, ie generation related technologies will be omitted. Specific technologies to be addressed could include wind generator control systems, SVCs, FACTS and STATCOM developments, superconducting fault current limiters, in-line voltage regulators, substation automation and integration of generator/voltage control, SCADA systems and associated communications. We understand from publicity that your company may be involved in product development or R&D which could enhance the current UK distribution system and allow the connection of increasing levels of distributed generation. As detailed in the covering e-mail we would like to meet to discuss your companys plans for such technologies. In order that we can have a useful discussion we have compiled some questions, below, which we would use as a basis for any meeting: Outline any current products which are used in overseas distribution systems which could benefit the UK system Are any products in development that may increase the ability of distribution systems to accept more distributed generation, or to delay reinforcement? If possible, discuss the companys current areas of research on distribution technologies Outline the areas in which the company expects current distribution technologies to develop over the next five years
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Outline the areas in which the company intends to undertake research over the next five years
The DTI is actively encouraging increased levels of distributed generation, and therefore the current distribution system may require significant changes in order to satisfy future needs. Funding may be available to support any technologies or R&D projects that aim to improve the capacity of the current distribution system. We acknowledge that there will almost certainly be confidentiality issues surrounding your research and products. In order that the DTI gains the most benefit from this study we would be willing to abide by a confidentiality agreement in order that sensitive information would not be disclosed. Such information would be included in a report appendix but would not form part of the document released into the public domain. The following questionnaire was sent out to a number of manufacturers with no UK offices. Sirs, We have been asked by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the UK to establish the state of the new technologies that could influence the power distribution industry over the next ten years. The purpose of this study is to identify the potential new technologies that may be applied in the UK and to enable them to concentrate their R&D funding on technologies that may have a commercial future. Specifically the DTIs requirements are summarised as follows: This will be a world-wide review. It is envisaged that the technologies to be covered would include primary and secondary plant infrastructure, telecommunications and IT. These technologies may not yet be fully developed, commercially available, or be cost effective, compared to more traditional approaches, but they should have the potential to be so by 2010. Existing technologies not currently employed in the UK will also be covered. Only network related technologies will be covered, ie generation related technologies will be omitted. Specific technologies to be addressed could include wind generator control systems, SVCs, FACTS and STATCOM developments, superconducting fault current limiters, in-line voltage regulators, substation automation and integration of generator/voltage control, SCADA systems and associated communications.
We understand from your publicity that you are presently working on dynamic reactive compensation, high temperature superconductor cables and other methods of improving power quality. Would you be able to confirm that you are still working on these technologies and when they are expected to reach the commercial market? We would also appreciate any information about any other exciting areas of research that you are undertaking that could be of interest to the power generation or power distribution industries. We acknowledge that there may be confidentiality issues surrounding your research and products, but would of course welcome any high level information that you would be prepared to share. Many thanks for your time and cooperation Best Regards
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Stephen Ingram
Seni or Pow er Systems Engi neer PB Pow er Ltd Energy and Uti li ty Consulti ng Manchester Technology Centre Oxfor d House Oxfor d Road Manchester M1 7ED <mailto:IngramSt@pbworld.com> Di rect Li ne: 44(0)161 200 5203 Fax: 44(0)161 200 5001
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APPENDIX C Responses from Manufacturers
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APPENDIX C Manufacturers Responses

The following pages contain the results of the manufacturers written responses to the various questionnaires.
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Com pany / Institution: Technology: Products: -
University of Canterbury / CanterburyTX Transformers High Temperature Superconducting Transformers
The University of Canterbury (NZ) is currently undertaking research into the development of HTS transformers. CanterburyTX is the company responsible for manufacturing the prototype and possibly production transformers. In addition to the details obtained from the w ebsite additional correspondence w as conducted as follows: From: Bodger, Pat [bodger@elec.canterbury.ac.nz] Sent: 30 September 2004 22:44 To: Ingram, Stephen Subject: RE: DTI New Technologies Hi Steve What are the reactance characteristics of an HTS transformer compared to normal power transformers? >With respect to leakage reactance it is smaller because of the thinness and the flux exclusion effects of HTS wire. You don't get the same leakage flux. >With respect to the magnetizing reactance, our partial core transformer has a higher reluctance for the magnetic circuit than a conventional full core transformer. This means a lower magnetizing inductance and hence reactance. Hence there is an increase in shunt reactive current going into the transformer. This is not necessarily a bad thing as it could be useful for reactive compensation of cable capacitance. If the reactance is significantly reduced then there may be no need for a tap changer? Voltage regulation on the LV side may be improved and fault levels increased. > In this you are referring to the leakage reactance. I can agree with your statements. Voltage regulation on our unit is low relative to a normal transformer. Also, would you be able to provide some information with regards to any future power system related R&D projects which you may be involved in? > While the HTS transformer is our main thrust, we have developed a resonant testing transformer and are looking at our HTS transformer as a reactive compensator and fault current limiter. Hope these responses are useful, but you may also wish to visit the
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department website www.elec.canterbury.ac.nz and look under Research groups and the Electric Power Engineering Centre and the Power Engineering Group. These will give you an overview of the extent of our research. Best regards Pat
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Com pany / Institution: Technology: Products: Meeting Date: Location: -
Remsdaq Remote Ter minal units (RTUs) CallistoIES 7th October 2004 PB Pow er Offices, Manchester
Remsdaq are a UK based company developing and marketing RTUs to the pow er generation and distribution business. In addition to the interview they provided a w ritten response to the questionnaire as reproduced below : I - Response to Questionnaire Q1- Outline any current products which are used in overseas distribution systems which could benefit the UK system. A1- Remsdaqs Callisto RTU has been used widely both in Overseas and UK electricity distribution systems. Please see the attached application summary entitled Callisto in Power Distribution.
Q2- Are any products in development that may increase the ability of distribution systems to accept more distributed generation, or to delay reinforcement?
A2- Callisto RTU already provides functionality and features applicable to distribution automation and distributed generation. Please refer to the attached application summary entitled Callisto in Power Distribution.
Q3- If possible, discuss the companys current areas of research on distribution technologies. A3- Remsdaq places great emphasis on its research and development facilities, and has a strong R&D Department. The Companys development plans are both technology and customer based to meet the needs of the ever increasing worldwide de-regulated electricity industry. Current development areas include the next generation Callisto RTU taking advantage of latest electronics / microprocessor technologies and available components, with an expandable and innovative hardware platform. Ethernet connectivity and GPRS communications are the latest additions to the Callisto networking and communication facilities. Q4- Outline the areas in which the company expects current distribution technologies to develop over the next 5 years.
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A4- Relevant to the RTU element, IEC61850 standard is an important area of development. An area which also should be looked at is the definition of a 3-phase object within the protocol(s). Developments / advances in communications technology / systems / equipment will open other areas for RTU development. These would be expected to include utilising low cost communications media, communication speeds, and communications security. Current areas of interest to the distribution network operators include fault condition monitoring and asset management and control, some of which are already within the RTU capabilities, with further developments / facilities are in sight. Q5- Outline the areas in which the company expects current distribution technologies to develop over the next 5 years. A5- Please see A4 above.
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II_- Callisto in Pow er Distribution 1- Selected Callisto features a)- Callisto is an advanced technology, versatile, and flexible RTU. It can provide most, if not all, information for the monitoring, control and protection of the electricity network. Utilising a networked distributed architecture, the RTU can be used in both distributed and concentrated arrangements. The unit is fully scalable and is suitable for use in RTU applications ranging from small (e.g. polemount) to large (e.g. fully equipped primary transmission and distribution substations). The product is specifically designed to meet the needs and requirements of the electric utility sector, and has been type tested to stringent EMC and Environmental standards. b)- Callisto has a fully flexible RTU functionality, which is augmented by its inherent intelligence. The unit is fully user configurable, and user programmable for automation and logic functions using IEC61131-3 guidelines. Programmes can be designed with over 1000 logic and arithmetic functions including PID controllers. RTU Programmes can reside on specific nodes or can be distributed across the entire remote. Example applications for embedded generation would include load shedding, generator / load scheduling, and alike (please see 2 below). c)- Callistos transducerless technology allows direct connection of AC signals from VTs and CTs. Signals are sampled at 128 samples per cycle, with simultaneous (synchronous) sampling of individual voltage and current phases to allow true rms calculation of voltages and currents to high levels of accuracy. Using a dedicated DSP (Digital Signal Processor) metering values including real pow er, reactive power, total pow er, kWh, kVARh (import, export, net), are calculated per phase and in total. Other calculated power parameters include power factor (per phase), supply frequency, and neutral current. In addition, power quality and supply analysis data are computed for positive, negative and zero phase sequence components, and for indiv idual v oltage and current harmonics up to the 50 th and THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) using advanced FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) algorithms for harmonics calculations. Analogue Limit Excursions (ALEs) against user defined limits are time stamped and recorded (for surges, sags, and other transients). Disturbance recording facilities within each RTU node allows the recording of disturbances for 12 user assignable data tracks, each providing 1 second of data, with 3 sets of buffer registers allowing the storage of multiple disturbances. Such information can be used by the user for disturbance analysis, network design / optimisation, etc. d)- Callisto supports a variety of communication media, including fixed circuits, fibre optics, dial up (PSTN), UHF radio, low power radio, private mobile radio (PMR), pow er-line carrier (PLC), Paknet, GSM, Satellite, Ethernet, GPRS, etc.
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The RTU has a rich library of communication protocols ranging from industry standard protocols such as DNP3.0, DNP3.0 I/P, IEC60870-5-101, IEC60870-5-103, IEC60870-5-104, Modbus, to proprietary protocols (e.g. ABB SPA-Bus, Areva K-series & M-series, Siemens, SEL, GE DFP & DLP, etc.), for communication with SCADA/EMS/DMS master stations and IED. A variety of communication topologies and architectures including master-slave, master-master, multiple master, slave RTUs and IEDs, point-to point, point-to-multipoint, multi-dropped, backup and redundant bearers, etc. are available with Callisto. RTU redundancy is also available for mission critical systems. 2- Applications in Distributed / Embedded Generation a)- At the generator plant the RTU can be utilised for the monitoring and control of local plant. The RTU can be scaled to suit the plant I/O requirements and where existing RTUs and PLCs are used it can also be used to interface with such units through a variety of protocols. The transducerless features can be used to derive direct power measurements and calculate / record parameters and data such as real and reactive power, total power, kWh, kVARh, (import, export, net) per phase and total, power factor per phase, supply frequency, power quality and harmonics, transients and disturbance data. The RTUs synchronising facilities can be used for synchronisation of the plant output with the network. The ability of the RTU to readily establish / calculate import and export of power provides valuable information for load scheduling / forecasting applications. Automatic control of the plant can be used by utilising the flexible user defined logic applications. The generator plant RTU can also communicate with (and be remotely controlled from) SCADA/EMS/DMS master station or master RTU(s) (e.g. RTU at primary substation or control centre, etc.). Such automation would allow automatic connection / disconnection of the generator from the network in case of defined faults / conditions, at scheduled intervals, due to outage of other duty generators, network faults, network operational strategies, schedules, supply routings / re-routings, etc. b)- RTUs at secondary substations, ground mounts, pole-mounts can be employed for the monitoring and control of plant data and network conditions. Local automation functions can be defined using the RTUs flexible user defined logic functions / applications. This could also include automatic transformer tap changes. The transducerless configuration can be used to derive direct power measurements and calculate / record parameters and data such as real and reactive power, total power, kWh, kVARh, (import, export, net) per phase and total, power factor per phase, supply frequency, power quality and harmonics, transients and disturbance data. The RTU can also communicate with (and be remotely controlled from) SCADA/EMS/DMS master station or master RTU(s) (e.g. RTU at primary substation or control centre, etc.) for network operational strategies, supply routings / re-routings, and alike.
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c)- At the primary substation the RTU can be scaled to suit the local I/O requirements and the communications with its slave RTUs and IEDs. The unit can be arranged in a distributed and / or concentrated configuration to correspond with the plant requirements. RTUs intelligence and user defined logic capabilities can be utilised to define flexible control and automation strategies for both local and remote control functions. Local automation could include Line Throw Over (LTO), Bus Throw Over (BTO), under-frequency load shedding, transformer tap control, etc. Remote automation functions could include network supply routings / re-routings, generator scheduling, etc. Dependent on the arrangements and network topologies / operations, the latter can encompass the monitoring and control / automation of large or small sections of the grid. As a result of the readily available data (including power parameters calculated under the transducerless arrangement at both the primary substations and its slave satellite RTUs) efficient control algorithms can be defined to cover a variety of strategies including the control of reverse power flow in primary transformers, import /export flow control, generator isolation under network fault conditions, etc. The RTUs transducerless capabilities allows the derivation of direct power measurements and calculation / recording of parameters and data such as real and reactive power, total power, kWh, kVARh, (import, export, net) per phase and total, power factor per phase, supply frequency, power quality and harmonics, transients and disturbance data. The RTU can communicate both upwards to one or more SCADA/EMS/DMS masters and downwards to slave RTUs (e.g. secondary substation, pole-mount and ground-mount RTUs, etc.) using a library if industry standard and proprietary protocols. A wide range of communications media are supported.
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NEW TECHNOLOGIES TO FACILITATE INCREASED LEVELS GENERATION OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION

CONTRACT NUMBER: DG/DTI/00039/05/00 URN NUMBER: 06/1829

NEW TECHNOLOGIES TO FACILITATE INCREASED LEVELS GENERATION OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION

First published 2006 Crown Copyright 2006

Project Steering Group Summary

SCADA systems including o o o Telecommunications IT Substation automation

Questionnaires and Interviews

QUESTIONNAIRES INTERVIEWS A ND QUESTIONNAIRES

TECHNOLOGIES PRIMARY PLANT TECHNOLOGIES

Solid State Tap Changer AREVA Two Position Tap Changer

Dynamic Rating Equipment

Cooper Industries Mitsubishi Electric Ltd

In-line Voltage Regulators SF 6 Distribution Transformers

Overhead Lines and Cables Developments

Superconducting Power Cables

Under trial in several installations

Dynamic Cable Rating Equipment

Composite Technology Corporation

Composite Overhead Conductors

SVCs, FACTs and STATCOMs Developments

D-VAR (STATCOM) devices

SuperVAR HTS synchronous compensator

D-SMES HTS Magnetic Energy Storage System

Switchgear and Fault Current Limiters Developments

Smaller cubicle sizes, therefore more feeders per substation

Solid State Circuit Breaker

Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Magnetic Fault Current Limiter

Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Under trial in several installations

TECHNOLOGIES SECONDARY PLANT TECHNOLOGIES

SCADA Systems and Substation Automation Developments

SCADA, EMS Systems

Econnect Load Controller Approximately 10 months

Communications Systems Developments

No major R&D projects related to communications technologies have been identified.

RESULTS PRIMARY PLANT RESULTS SUMMARY

Solid State Tap Changer AREVA Two Position Tap Changer

Voltage range not known

Voltage range not known

Potential to Allow Allow Increased Generation

Superconducting Power Transformers

Voltage range not known

Increased substation capacities due to smaller footprint.

Waukesha Electric Systems

Superconducting Power Transformers

Voltage range not known

Increased substation capacities due to smaller footprint.

Dynamic Rating Equipment

In-line Voltage Regulators

Potential to Allow Allow Increased Generation

Mitsubishi Electric Ltd

Increased substation capacities due to smaller footprint.

Overhead Lines and Cables

Superconducting Power Cables

Initially 132kV and above due to costs

Increased circuit capacities, reduction of voltage regulation problems. Lower losses.

Composite Technology Corporation

Composite Overhead Conductors

Initially 132kV and above due to cost

Cost intended to provide cost saving over GAP type conductors

SVCs, FACTS and STATCOMs

FACTS, HVDC Light, SVC