Keywords
Micro grids, smart grids, protection and control, grid
management, grid monitoring
The way people use electricity has changed very little in
the past 50 years: all you have to do is plug in your device
and flick the switch. But what goes on behind the scenes
has been transformed, especially since the advent of
significant renewable energy generators and micro
generators. Complex computer programmes and
monitoring systems are constantly at work to match
electricity supply against demand and manage local and
national grids to optimise generation and prevent waste.
Expertise
We are working on technologies and methods to improve
how electricity is transmitted and distributed through
the grid. This includes power electronic systems,
communications, and environmentally-friendly
equipment to protect, monitor, diagnose and control the
condition and performance of distribution networks.
We have high current and high voltage facilities for testing
and researching full size switchgear at both transmission
and distribution levels, in particular the removal of SF6
from transmission switchgear. We also have three wind
turbines and a suite of solar panels located on the roof of
the Electrical Engineering and Electronics department;
these can be integrated to demonstrate the control and
communications which are needed for the effective use
of micro and smart grids. Our wind and solar platforms
incorporate sensors and sensing systems to provide
information and diagnostics for smart grid systems as
well as the transmission and distribution network.
Our expertise covers both the hardware and software
necessary for effective distribution and use of electrical
energy; we have a unique capability to integrate a range
of quite different technologies to create micro- and
smart grids.
Capabilities and facilities
•
High current and high voltage test facilities for
testing full size switchgear at both transmission and
distribution levels
•
Development and testing of SF6-free switchgear
•
Development and testing of demonstration systems
for assessment and diagnostics
•
Smart grid communication systems
•
Suite of solar panels and test wind turbines
•
Sensing systems for experimental data and
diagnostics on transmission and distribution
networks.
Our monitoring technologies
are used by distribution and
transmission companies; they
provide important information
about the network and the
equipment in the network that
was previously unknown.
Energy & Sustainability
75
3.
Power equipment, smart grids and plant control
APPLICATION AREAS
•
Electronics and electrical systems
•
Energy
•
Society and community
•
Sustainability
For further information
on all our specialist
centres, facilities and
laboratories
go to page
179
