(Compact Secondary Substation. Credit: ABB)
By Petr Valenta, ABB
The renewables race continues, with leading economies strengthening the scale and pace of renewable investments to ensure future energy security and meet their net-zero goals. As more renewables enter the grid, electrical distribution infrastructure is undergoing a massive, rapid transformation. Utility providers are no longer working with a centralized power plant generating electricity 24-7, which means they must consider how to manage and balance the network in a different way.
One solution can be found with the latest generation of compact secondary substations. Purpose-designed to provide a rapid, all-in-one response for even the shortest delivery frameworks and the most complex projects, these solutions easily and rapidly connect renewable energy sources with the grid, manage the variable output from these sources and help utility providers balance supply and demand more effectively while progressing towards their net-zero goals.
Substations play an important role in transmitting electricity through the electrical system at different voltages safely and effectively, allowing the voltage to be transformed or ‘switched’ so it can enter businesses and homes at a usable level.
A CSS is a prefabricated solution containing medium-voltage (MV) switchgear, distribution transformers, low-voltage (LV) switchboards, connections and auxiliary equipment, which is used for energy transformation in secondary distribution networks to supply LV energy from MV systems.
Crucially, a CSS provides a convenient point for integrating and connecting distributed energy resources, such as solar connection units, into the electricity grid without the need for extensive modifications or new infrastructure, allowing utility providers to optimize the use of renewable energy.
In addition, these compact structures facilitate the integration of energy storage systems, for the efficient storage of excess energy generated by renewable sources. This stored energy can then be utilized during peak demand periods, reducing strain on the grid, and balancing the power supply more efficiently.
Compact secondary substation’s digital capabilities can also be a benefit for utility providers looking to improve energy efficiency and maximize input from renewable sources. Digitally-enabled substations can connect easily to customers’ SCADA systems, which are used to assess the state of each piece of equipment in the substation and enable remote operation.
The data acquired via these systems can then be analyzed to offer insight into how the station is performing to help customers to make informed decisions on how to improve performance, reduce maintenance costs and optimize energy consumption.
As Artificial Intelligence technology progresses, these systems will only become smarter, further empowering operators to make better decisions about everything from predictive maintenance to load switching, simplifying grid management and reducing the total cost of ownership of their infrastructure.
For utility providers that need to increase capacity quickly, however, the speed of installation is the number one attraction for investing in a CSS, rather than a traditional substation.
Fabricated and tested off-site to each customer’s specifications, the CSS is delivered as a complete solution, speeding up installation and commissioning and reducing the need for skilled teams on the ground. This means that customers can respond faster to increasing power demands and changing distribution needs. Additional substations can be added quickly and easily to improve capacity without significant disruptions.
As nations across the world compete to become the global renewable energy leader, it is crucial that utility providers use every resource and solution available to simplify the sometimes challenging task of renewable integration and effectively manage a grid comprised of more distributed energy resources than ever before.
Compact secondary substations not only serve as critical points of integration for renewable energy, but their flexibility, scalability and advanced digital features can empower utilities to effectively manage their evolving distribution challenges. As the penetration of renewable energy sources continues to grow, these smart, compact solutions are set to play a pivotal role in the evolution of the grid, giving operators who embrace them a substantial head start on the road to net zero.
With a passion for technology and master’s degrees in finance and applied mathematics, Petr has extensive experience in the industry. During his time with ABB, he has held a number of roles across Medium Voltage products, Distribution Solutions and Service. In his current position, he is responsible for developing ABB’s Compact Secondary Substations product line.
If you have any questions on compact substation. We will give the professional answers to your questions.