The ‘fault level assessment’ tool from Schneider Electric will help the distribution network operator (DNO) manage fault currents and assess when the fault level (the maximum current that can flow through the network) approaches critical levels.
The tool will be installed as part of ENW’s £5.5 million Respond project, which is analysing how active fault level management can help DNOs quickly connect customers’ low-carbon demand and generation at a lower cost than traditional reinforcement.
Intermittent renewable energy sources and anticipated growth in peak electricity demand, are fuelling an increase in network fault levels. When fault level goes above the capability of existing circuit breakers, substations and energy infrastructure are placed in real danger unless actively managed.
The tool will supply information to ENW’s network management system to react to changing conditions, maximising network efficiency, especially under fault conditions.
“Britain’s existing energy infrastructure is not designed to deal with elevated levels of fault current, caused by the evolving networks, but upgrading substations to increase capacity could cost GB up to £156 million over the next eight years,” said Schneider Electric smart grid director Barrie Cressey.
“As part of the Respond project, our fault level assessment tool will help DNOs manage the increased fault level with the infrastructure already in place.”