Abstract
The performance of a 33 kV distribution network with a proposed medium-voltage DC (MVDC) link between the island of Anglesey and the mainland in North Wales was assessed. The MVDC link, which will be constructed as part of the Ofgem Electricity Network Innovation Competition project ANGLE-DC, was simulated under a wide range of demand and generation, with control strategies based on real-time data from the three 132/33 kV grid transformers (GTs) that supply the island network or the wider supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. The active power set points of the MVDC link for the GT data-based control were determined by a sensitivity analysis of the network losses. For a wider SCADA system-based control, optimal set points were obtained using an optimal power flow method. The network losses and hosting capacity of distribution generation (DG) were assessed considering both normal network and N−1 conditions. This study found that the use of the MVDC link increased the DG hosting capacity of the network, but network losses might be increased or reduced depending on the load and generation conditions, and control strategies.
Highlights
UK electricity distribution networks need to adapt for the future energy scenarios which aims to reduce carbon emissions, in the power sector, to near zero by 2050 [1]
This may result in lengthy lead times for renewable connections
4.1.1 Sensitivity analysis of network losses: A sensitivity analysis was carried out quantifying power losses for different scenarios of demand, generation and medium-voltage DC (MVDC) active power set points
Summary
UK electricity distribution networks need to adapt for the future energy scenarios which aims to reduce carbon emissions, in the power sector, to near zero by 2050 [1]. Obtaining way-leave agreements or easements could directly affect the lead time of distribution network expansion schemes. This may result in lengthy lead times for renewable connections. Renewable resources are intermittent and their export does not necessarily coincide with local demand This along with the inherent uncertainty of generation and demand requires future distribution networks to be flexible and controllable. Technical challenges include a combination of thermal overloading, voltage excursions and breaching fault level limits These challenges result in delays and restrictions on the connection of low carbon generation. The use of MVDC technology has the potential to provide rapid control of voltage and power flows and so increase the capacity of networks to transport power. MVDC has not, so far, been used in distribution networks in the UK and this work offers an early opportunity to investigate its use and benefits
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