Paul Boughton
A flexible ac transmission (FACTS) system will be installed in EDF Energy Networks’ distribution network on the Norfolk coast of the UK, to level out load peaks and improve access to wind power.
ABB, the power and automation technology group, has agreed a contract with EDF Energy Networks to work on a collaborative research, development and demonstration project in the UK to install an SVC Light with dynamic energy storage in a grid with a high penetration of wind power.
The installation will yield dynamic voltage control in an 11 kV distribution system and at the same time enable dynamic storage of surplus energy from wind farms, which can be utilized to level out peaks in grid loading. Using this strategy, the power harnessed from the wind can be put to more efficient use than would otherwise be possible.
The SVC Light with dynamic energy storage based on high-tech lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries will be constructed in Hemsby, Norfolk, and connected to the distribution network between Ormesby and Martham in Norfolk, England. It will be in operation by the end of next year (2009).
Allan Boardman, EDF Energy Networks planning engineer said: “This project will make a difference, because it will allow more renewable generation connections to existing electricity networks, and it will also demonstrate the value of energy storage”.
“The installation will improve the usability of power from wind farms and avoid the destabilising effect it can have on the grid.” said Per Eckemark, Head of ABB’s FACTS System Group. “It will also provide a useful reference project for energy storage”.
This collaboration project clearly demonstrates the commitment of both ABB and EDF Energy Networks to address climate change, by improving network access to renewable electricity production. The benefits may include a reduction in the amount of carbon produced by the UK power industry.
The project is being financially supported through industry regulator Ofgem’s Innovation Funding Incentive scheme.
For more information, visit www.abb.com
ABB, the power and automation technology group, has agreed a contract with EDF Energy Networks to work on a collaborative research, development and demonstration project in the UK to install an SVC Light with dynamic energy storage in a grid with a high penetration of wind power.
The installation will yield dynamic voltage control in an 11 kV distribution system and at the same time enable dynamic storage of surplus energy from wind farms, which can be utilized to level out peaks in grid loading. Using this strategy, the power harnessed from the wind can be put to more efficient use than would otherwise be possible.
The SVC Light with dynamic energy storage based on high-tech lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries will be constructed in Hemsby, Norfolk, and connected to the distribution network between Ormesby and Martham in Norfolk, England. It will be in operation by the end of next year (2009).
Allan Boardman, EDF Energy Networks planning engineer said: “This project will make a difference, because it will allow more renewable generation connections to existing electricity networks, and it will also demonstrate the value of energy storage”.
“The installation will improve the usability of power from wind farms and avoid the destabilising effect it can have on the grid.” said Per Eckemark, Head of ABB’s FACTS System Group. “It will also provide a useful reference project for energy storage”.
This collaboration project clearly demonstrates the commitment of both ABB and EDF Energy Networks to address climate change, by improving network access to renewable electricity production. The benefits may include a reduction in the amount of carbon produced by the UK power industry.
The project is being financially supported through industry regulator Ofgem’s Innovation Funding Incentive scheme.
For more information, visit www.abb.com
