Making better use of reserves in the electricity grid
The German electricity grid could already transport significantly more electricity if existing grid capacity were better utilized, according to a recent study by the VDE Energy Technology Society (VDE ETG).
The study explores ways to optimize grid congestion management and adapt the grid more quickly to the demands of renewable energy expansion without compromising stability or supply security.
The new VDE study focuses on utilizing untapped reserves in the current grid infrastructure by temporarily increasing resource utilization. By distinguishing between permissible higher utilization (within material limits) and impermissible overloading (with unacceptable risks), the experts suggest a method to accelerate renewable energy integration.
The findings indicate significant potential:
• Cables: Up to 60% increased load capacity.
• Transformers: Up to 50% increased load capacity.
• Overhead Lines: Up to 58% more physical load, achievable through weather-dependent dynamic operation. In this approach, real-time weather data is used to calculate current-carrying capacity and integrate it into control systems.
• Switchgear: Limited additional capacity (15%), requiring improved cooling or sensor-based digital monitoring.
Individual consideration necessary
The physical capabilities of specific systems must be carefully assessed before broadly implementing measures to increase the load capacity of equipment such as transformers, overhead lines, cables, and switchgear. Additionally, several important questions must be addressed: foremost among these are the interactions between technical regulations, the physical limitations of the equipment, and legal considerations, including liability risks, which require cross-departmental coordination. The task force also emphasizes the need to account for potential challenges, such as an increased frequency of faults and accelerated aging of components, when operating resources are utilized more intensively.
www.vde.com
Source: 50,2 Magazine for smart grids