Innovative voltage management techniques to derive active network services from existing assets

Abstract

This paper discusses the objectives, delivery and learning from the Electricity North West Limited (ENWL) Customer Load Active System Services (CLASS) project, funded via Ofgem's Low Carbon Networks (LCN) Fund. CLASS project identified the need to explore the ability of Great Britain (GB) distribution networks to deliver a suite of network services; in support of National Grid (NG)'s responsibility for system balancing as the GB's Transmission System Operator (GB TSO), as well as helping Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) defer or even prevent the need for network reinforcements. The CLASS project, trialled across ENWL's network sought to demonstrate the extent of increasing electricity networks' capability through the application of innovative and active voltage management methods. As discussed in this paper, the project demonstrated how a range of frequency response, demand response and voltage control services can be efficiently and economically provided to stabilize the network, keep the voltage within limits and rationalize demand (especially at peak periods) with the existing network assets, thereby allowing more Low carbon Technologies (LCT) to be deployed on the networks. The Autonomous Substation Controller (ASC), from Siemens, was used to deliver each of the following innovative and critical services which have proven to be instrumental towards achieving huge savings for customers: Frequency Management, Reactive Power Response, Demand Response, (Boost/Reduction).