National Grid UK announces world’s first large-scale use of power flow technology
National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) is using transformational technology to unlock 1.5 GW of network capacity.
Image source: T&D World
UK, Carlisle: National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) is using transformational technology to unlock 1.5 GW of network capacity.
That will be enough renewable energy to power one million homes — supporting the United Kingdom’s net-zero ambitions.
As power grids become more intelligent, digital, and controllable, the NGET is using SmartValve, a cutting-edge modular power flow control technology, to drive this transition.
The NGET is installing SmartValve on five circuits at three of its substation sites in the north of England, which makes 500 MW of new network capacity available in each region. This technology will help to decarbonize the UK electricity grid by allowing greater volumes of renewable power to be efficiently transferred to customers.
As more renewable generation comes onto the network, depending on the weather, power flows change and circuits become unequally loaded, meaning some circuits reach maximum capacity while others are still well below their limits.
The sites — at Harker in Carlisle, Penwortham in Preston, and Saltholme in Stockton-on-Tees near Middlesbrough — were identified as needing a solution to solve bottlenecks of renewable power. State-of-the-art technology from US-based Smart Wires intelligently and instantly routes power through circuits that have available capacity, maximizing use of the existing network.
“Harnessing the potential of new innovative technologies to enhance benefits for customers and consumers is at the heart of everything we do. I am proud to see the NGET leading the way and pioneering transformational and innovative engineering to achieve wide scale decarbonization and overcome bottlenecks that are preventing maximum use of our networks. I’m delighted to see Smart Wires intelligent technology installed on National Grid’s transmission network, making it a world’s first — this will be key to unlocking extra capacity safely and quickly,” said David Wright, chief engineer for National Grid.
Source: T&D World