Identifying the challenges for a grid operator in the low-voltage grid and the required need for flexibility
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Last Updated: 2-2015
The energy transition affects the low-voltage grid. More demanding technologies enter the low-voltage grid. The grid operator needs to maintain this grid. The low-voltage grids are designed for the present situation. The new energy system is much more complex. The present grid is unable to cope with these new demands & supply loads. The capacity of the low-voltage grids may be insufficient. The under capacity is examined in a low-voltage grid with help of Vision. Different scenarios are modified for new insights in an existing residential neighborhood. The case reveals capacity problems for assets such as transformer stations. These problems are solved with two reinforcement approaches. Energy storage is applied as flexible solution and the traditional solution includes heavier assets. Both solutions are input for a business case. Presently, the traditional approach of grid reinforcement is more profitable. Nevertheless, the grid operator has (new) insights in the present situation and the problems which may occur due to higher penetrations of technologies. The most important findings are: the relevance of segmented data, monitoring and measuring new demand & supply loads is crucial, and the costs of energy storage do not outweigh the traditional upgrade costs.