Utilising Distribution Transformers To Optimise Solar

Published 05 Apr 2019

Manufactured & Designed In UK | Short Lead Time | Transformers LV 11kV

uploaded by Chris Dodds - Thorne & Derrick International Sales & Marketing Manager

Transformers

The importance of distribution 11kV transformers as part of electrical infrastructure can not be overstated. As an asset that is always energised, regardless of whether they carry a load, transformers are critical assets and pivotal to ensuring that a safe level of voltage is supplied to businesses across the UK.

It is surprising then to consider that the performance and operation of them has been left offline and unknown apart from when subjected to annual manual inspections, particularly as Industry 4.0 gathers momentum and the UK continues to undergo digitalisation.

Fortunately, the advent of smart transformers has revolutionised this crucial asset and enables companies to access real-time insights into asset performance and operation through remote monitoring capabilities, ultimately enabling a holistic energy management system to be achieved.

The value of such characteristics is apparent in applications such as that of grid tied solar photovoltaic (PV) applications. In these applications, distribution transformers are utilised to directly connect generation from solar PV sources to the grid.

A benefit of grid tied solar (PV) applications is its ability to transform the DC power generated from solar modules into AC power that can be used on the network in a smooth transition without overvoltage.

This transition minimises wasted energy and therefore heightens energy efficiency, whilst the protection against overvoltage allows electrical equipment to continue operating at an optimal level and therefore minimise the risk of premature breakdown and the costs of early repair or replacement.

Additionally, the connection to the network allows those with grid tied solar to take part in the decentralisation of the energy network that forms a key part of the energy transition. This is because the grid connection through a transformer allows for the selling of excess generation to the grid and the asset owner to become what is known as a prosumer – an organisation that both consumes and produces energy.

When the site is utilising solar power, the energy has to be transmitted to the area of consumption, this is when the assets will transform the energy to ensure it is at the correct voltage either to export to the grid or to supply the site. Any interruption caused by a malfunction of a distribution transformer during this process can have significant consequences including wasted solar generation and loss of revenue if during a time of paid export to the grid.

Therefore, the ability to gain valuable insights relating to asset performance and operation can protect against such scenarios by allowing for preventative maintenance to be deployed when anomalous activity is detected, such as a rising temperature of the core.

The real-time responsiveness of the remote monitoring capabilities, such as those found within Powerstar SO-LO a super low loss amorphous core smart transformer with remote monitoring capabilities, enable detailed and easier management of all assets connected to the transformer and can highlight areas of further optimisation. These remote monitoring capabilities can deliver details, 24/7, on grid information, conditional performance data, energy efficiency reports and more from anywhere with a secure internet connection.

Super Low Loss Transformers Up To 11kV By Powerstar SO-LO

This takes on even greater importance in grid tied applications when considering the intensity of PV generators and the role they can play in the security of supply to a site and towards carbon neutrality goals.

Furthermore, smart transformers like Powerstar SO-LO provide greater efficiencies than traditional transformers due to the materials which they use. Instead of using cold rolled grain-oriented (CRGO) silicon steel like traditional distribution transformers, Powerstar SO-LO uses an amorphous alloy core. This is a more flexible material than CRGO and allows for easy magnetisation and demagnetisation to take place which leads to greater efficiencies, with up to 75% lower core losses achievable when using amorphous core compared to CRGO. This greater efficiency further enhances the benefits of grid tied PV.

It is clear that, as the energy transition progresses, the use of onsite generation such as solar PV is likely to become more widespread. However, to obtain the most benefit from onsite generation, particularly given the intermittent and often unreliable nature of renewable sources, it needs to be made as efficient as possible.

Grid tied PV through smart transformers represents a proven and reliable way of enhancing the efficiency of solar PV and maximising the benefits of onsite generation.

To find out more about Powerstar, please visit https://powerstar.com.

Photo caption: (L-R) Chris Dodds of Thorne & Derrick meeting with Lindsay Brownless (Head of Commercial and Marketing at Powerstar) recently at T&D’s offices in Durham, UK.

Thorne & Derrick & Powerstar

Thorne & Derrick distribute the most extensive range of 11kV Cable Installation & Electrical Distribution Equipment to the renewable energy sector – we service UK and international clients working on underground cables, overhead lines, substations and electrical construction at 11kV and up to and EHV transmission and distribution voltages.

Key 11kV Products: MV-HV Cable Joints & Terminations, Cable Cleats, Duct Seals, Cable Transits, Underground Cable Protection, Copper Earth Tapes, Cable Jointing Tools, Feeder Pillars, Cable Ducting, Earthing & Lightning Protection, Electrical Safety, Cable Glands, Arc Flash Protection & Fusegear.

Distributors for: 3M Cold Shrink, ABB, Alroc, Band-It, Catu, Cembre, Centriforce, CMP, Elastimold, Ellis Patents, Emtelle, Furse, Lucy Zodion, Nexans Euromold, Pfisterer, Polypipe, Prysmian, Roxtec.