Distribution Network in Real Time
The measurement data all originates in a small smart grid, located in the Wüste district of Osnabrück. SWO Netz operated an intelligent network here as a pilot project from 2013 to 2016. “We wanted to use modern technologies to explore how we can manage the addition of decentralized energy producers, like PV arrays, and additional consumers, like eVehicles, in the network. At the same time, we wanted to keep network expansion costs in check,” explains Drecksträter. The project encompassed 60 buildings with 125 apartments. One peculiarity is that seven PV systems produce electricity in this small area. Drecksträter explains, “A decisive criterion for the selection was that, in terms of the the load profile, was transferable to about 90 % of the Osnabrück supply area.” With only a few deviations, the load profile in the area matches the German average. Electrical consumption increases rapidly in the morning, levels off to a moderate level during the day, rises to another peak in the evening and then drops off overnight.
The data about consumers and producers, as well as other relevant values, like active and reactive power in the project area, are collected at a local network station and five cable distribution cabinets that were equipped for intelligence using WAGO components. In addition, one resident who agreed to participate allowed his PV array to be fitted with measurement devices. At the core of the automation is a 750 Series Ethernet I/O Controller (750-880), combined with 3-Phase Power Measurement Modules (750-494) and 855 Series Current Transformers. In all, the components detect more than 215 measured values.