Analysis of justification for using capacitor banks in distribution networks with low power demand

Abstract

In distribution networks with normal and high load capacitor banks are used in MV/LV substations for reducing power losses. However, underground MV cable lines and capacitor banks have a similar impact on power loss reduction in the distribution system so in specific conditions such as long underground MV cable lines and low electric energy consumption the question arises about the justification for the use of capacitor banks. This paper presents an approach to the analysis of the justification for the use of capacitor banks in indicated circumstances. The approach is based on monitoring statistics of average measured power consumption during the representative period. The operation of the monitored distribution network is simulated for each short interval of the selected period. For each short interval, simulations are made both with and without the use of capacitor banks and energy savings and losses are calculated. On the basis of calculated data, the cumulative sum of saved or lost energy during the whole selected period is calculated and a conclusion is reached on the justification for the use of capacitor banks in the monitored network.