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It's a generation thing
20/04/2016
The connection of a new solar farm to our electricity network in Wolverhampton, has involved the use of some clever technology to maximise its capacity.
The technology, known as generation constraint panels, has been developed to deal with increasing amounts of embedded generation. This is generation that connects directly to a distribution network from the likes of solar or wind farms.
It is the first project within the Tipton area to use the panels at 11,000 volts, and one of only five where they have been used anywhere in the West Midlands.
Our Technical Policy Manager, Andy Hood explained: “These panels can be installed at generation sites and are used to reduce generator output if the maximum voltage limits or ratings of equipment like switchgear, cables and overhead lines are reached. They can also be used to reduce generation output when required by the National Grid thereby helping to maintain the security of the transmission network.”
The panels, which are supplied by C & G Automation Systems UK Ltd, are commissioned and tested at our Plant Centre at Huthwaite so that they are ready to be used as soon as they are installed on site.
In addition to their installation, changes to existing substation equipment also have to be made to ensure compatibility.
The introduction of changes in the Government’s tariff payments to renewable generation developers meant that the Wolverhampton connection had to be completed before the end of March.
“The timescales were fairly tight but thanks to a magnificent team effort and no hitches, everything went to plan,” said Tipton South East Team Manager, Richard Yates.
The technology, known as generation constraint panels, has been developed to deal with increasing amounts of embedded generation. This is generation that connects directly to a distribution network from the likes of solar or wind farms.
It is the first project within the Tipton area to use the panels at 11,000 volts, and one of only five where they have been used anywhere in the West Midlands.
Our Technical Policy Manager, Andy Hood explained: “These panels can be installed at generation sites and are used to reduce generator output if the maximum voltage limits or ratings of equipment like switchgear, cables and overhead lines are reached. They can also be used to reduce generation output when required by the National Grid thereby helping to maintain the security of the transmission network.”
The panels, which are supplied by C & G Automation Systems UK Ltd, are commissioned and tested at our Plant Centre at Huthwaite so that they are ready to be used as soon as they are installed on site.
In addition to their installation, changes to existing substation equipment also have to be made to ensure compatibility.
The introduction of changes in the Government’s tariff payments to renewable generation developers meant that the Wolverhampton connection had to be completed before the end of March.
“The timescales were fairly tight but thanks to a magnificent team effort and no hitches, everything went to plan,” said Tipton South East Team Manager, Richard Yates.
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