Digitalisation of the energy distribution grids
Challenge
In the current grid structure of the energy networks, only a few local network stations (ONS) supply operating data to the control centre. In the event of faults, it is therefore often the case that affected grid areas have to be disconnected from the network over a large area in order to enable rapid rectification. On-site faults are localised using short-circuit and earth fault indicators, but these are currently often not connected to the control centre, which makes remote monitoring and diagnosis more difficult.
According to Section 14 of the German Energy Industry Act (EnWG), grid operators are also obliged to continuously determine the status of their networks. To date, this has been done exclusively with the help of grid models and calculations, as well as historical grid and master data. In future, current measurement data will also be used. The aim of these measures is to enable a precise and comprehensive analysis of the grid status in order to ensure efficient grid management and planning.
This means that the power flows in the medium and low-voltage grid must be recorded and documented. This represents a significant expansion of the previous requirements and means retrofitting measurement and telecommunications technology for most of the local grid stations in the network. The recording of this data will make a decisive contribution to ensuring grid stability and optimising the adaptability of the grid to growing requirements and changing loads.
The 5G SENS IO-BOX remote signalling solution enables the efficient acquisition of measurement data from existing (or retrofitted) measurement technology via Modbus RTU. Devices from manufacturers such as Horstmann, Janitza, Kries and others are supported. The collected data is transmitted to an energy cloud or customer databases via the 5G mobile network, enabling centralised and convenient data management and display.
Another advantage of the solution is the ability to forward selected data (e.g. medium-voltage current flows) directly to the control centre. This ensures a rapid response in the event of faults or necessary maintenance measures.
The security of the transmitted data is guaranteed by modern authentication methods and end-to-end encryption (E2E), so that data transmission is both reliable and protected against unauthorised access.
Solution
- Simple retrofit solution for existing systems
- Existing measurement technology can continue to be used
- Fulfils the requirements of Section 14 of the Energy Industry Act (EnWG)
- Plug & play installation (no IT expertise required)
- Remote signalling unit can be configured completely remotely (via device management)
- Remote signalling unit is battery-buffered to ensure operation even in the event of a power failure
- Data forwarding with IEC 60870-5-104
- Fast localisation of network faults
- Minimisation of network failure
- Reduction of network downtimes
Customers
- Local and medium-voltage grid operators
- Municipal utilities providers
- Operators of local energy grids
Reference
ED-Netze blog about the solution
https://blog.ednetze.de/richtig-spannend-fehlersuche-4-0-im-netz/
‘... In the case of ED Netze, for example, the circuit breakers in substations and switchgears are already being digitally monitored, as is the outgoing current in transformer stations. There is a clear objective behind this: more transparency in the grid for greater security of supply. ...’