Innovative Replacement for Underground Substations

Completed

Other Power and Storage Technologies(Electricity transmission and distribution)

Applied Research and Development

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)

Not Cross-cutting

Project Contact
SPEN - SP Distribution Plc

Network Innovation Allowance

Ofgem

01 September 2021

31 January 2022

ENA months

£200,000

Power

Scotland

Network Innovation Allowance

Project Contact, SPEN - SP Distribution Plc

Project Contact, SP Energy Networks

The intended method to solve the problem will be a technical solution. Through studies we will identify and assess the capability of different power electronic devices (PEDs) that could be used in place of underground transformers. It is intended that the PEDs will occupy the same footprint as the existing underground transformers. Facilitate a full study covering the potential Power Electronic Device (PED) solutions currently used out with the sector , this will include for each identified solution, scope for distribution network applications, including detailed practical requirements and a CBA for each.From the findings of the study - if proven through the CBA – this project could provide a range of financial benefits for each of the 79 UG Substations the solution is applied too. Immediate savings will come from no land purchase and reduced cable costs (unit cost and civil costs). Over time reduced losses on the network will save money. Furthermore, reduced reinforcement costs in the future as the PED are better equipped to facilitate the expected increase in LCTs. From an environmental point of view reusing existing locations will protect green space which would otherwise be destroyed/disturbed during the relocation. Reducing the amount of cable required provides a reduction in the CO2 produced from both the manufacturing and civil works.Stakeholder relations with our customers can also be positivity impacted by the reduction in civil works providing the consumer benefit of less disruption to their day to day life. Identify a solution which can be installed in the existing location of UG substation.Highlight the full range of PED solutions and assess the feasibility of each.Outline the technical and practical requirements for deployment of innovative PED.Produce a CBA of proposed PED.Develop a decision-making procedure to select optimum solution.

During ED2 SPEN intend to remove 79 legacy UG secondary substations as part of modernisation work. The current proposed baseline solution consists of removing the existing equipment, relocating to the nearest convenient land, and replacing with a standard over ground enclosure.This project aims to eliminate the identified risk of relocation site suitability/availability. Studies will be carried out to assess the feasibility of combining an innovative transformer design with power electronics.Innovating the transformer design allows installation at the existing location resulting in potential land cost savings, reduced excavation disruptions/CO2 emissions and protection of green space.Adoption of power electronics could provide a greater capacity to accommodate new LCTs, a more efficient network through phase/power balancing reducing costs for customers.

02/11/22