Distribution Network 2020 – Improving Capacity and Ensuring Grid Quality

Motivation

As the use of renewable energy continues to expand, medium- and low-voltage distribution grids are reaching their capacity limits, particularly in rural areas. This results in problems with voltage stability and equipment overloads.

Problem Statement

“Distribution Network 2020” is conducting research to improve the system’s capacity and ensure the quality of the distribution network. To this end, the project partners aim to develop a wide variety of equipment that has not been available until now. A central component of the project is the integration of these components, along with a communication system, into a comprehensive, automated control system (control technology) to ensure optimal coordination. PPC’sbroadband powerline technology serves as the communication system.

The innovative equipment to be developed consists of controllable and adjustable feeders and inverters capable of maintaining voltage or regulating active and reactive power. Controllable, decentralized energy storage systems are intended to enable cost-optimized operation based on forecasts of consumption and generation. Intelligent, controllable, and multifunctional longitudinal regulators will be used in local distribution substations and as feeder regulators for purposes including voltage maintenance and compensation for grid disturbances.

Procedure

First, the interaction will be simulated and then examined in a laboratory test. Based on these findings, the entire system will be tested in a field trial on the distribution network of the participating grid operator, Infra Fürth GmbH.

PPC is responsible for the “Communication Technology” subproject and, consequently, for providing a reliable, cost-effective communication infrastructure with low latency in the test area. The focus is on the further development of broadband powerline technology, for example with regard to the dynamic connection of various types of equipment.

Funded Collaborative Project

The Distribution Network 2020 project is part of the “Sustainable Power Grids” funding initiative. The project began on August 1, 2014, and ran through January 31, 2018. The project budget totaled approximately 5.4 million euros, with the BMWiproviding approximately 3.1 million euros in funding.