Economical benefits and higher quality with LVDC Microgrid

LVDC-article part 3/3

The first article told how LVDC Microgrid offers solution for the most relevant problems, like lack of capacity, power loss, poor quality of electricity, unbalances and variations of voltage or frequency. The second part told about functionalities and the microgrid solution. LVDC can bring six to ten times more distribution capacity to already existing grid and it can reduce the losses caused by non-billable usage to zero. 

The Ensto LVDC substation converts the +-750V DC (direct current) to the common 230V AC (alternating current) for customers. Since the AC is produced locally on site, it has a high quality with no voltage drops or interferences, which are typical for long AC branches with numerous varying loads and electronic devices connected. According to the same principle, the substation isolates all nonlinear loads and THD sources coming up from customers’ side to the MV (medium voltgae) grid, thanks to a DC line between the local substation and the Ensto LVDC Feeder Station. 

The Ensto Microgrid solution includes LVDC Feeder Stations also to solar and wind power Maximum Power Point Tracking  as well as Electric Vehicle Charging. Fast energy storages can be connected by Ensto Battery Management. Storage is easily expandable to serve customers in off-grid mode and hence, to ensure the reliability of supply. They can also act as a virtual power plant to support HV and MV grid frequency in high-demand, peak situations.

The Ensto Utility Manager receives a continuous flow of measurement and status information from the components of the Ensto Microgrid solution. The cloud-based platform gives a detailed view and control of the network and its customers, also supporting billing, site priorities and developing new services. Via the Utility Manager, the whole LVDC branch and all devices are connected to the utility's SCADA.

Tested and proven solutions for rugged utility use

Ensto Utility Networks is a business area of Ensto, an international family business, which designs and provides smart electrical solutions. Ensto Utility Networks offers solutions and components for electricity distribution utilities to help them in ensuring power quality in their networks.

For the LVDC solution, Ensto already has projects in the pipeline, including overhead lines and underground cables, both in the Nordic countries and internationally.

For more information please contact:
Jussi Vanhanen, Director, LVDC, Ensto Utility Networks,

jussi.vanhanen(at)ensto.com, www.ensto.com