Technical requirements and challenges for grid applications of Smart Transformers

The growing connections of Low Carbon Technologies (LCTs) such as electric vehicles and photovoltaics have caused additional strain on distribution networks, in particular low voltage networks. The solution conventionally practiced by network operators is to reinforce the network which can be prohibitively expensive, time-consuming and interruptive to public. The alternative approach is to enhance the utilization of network assets by introducing intelligent active network control & operation. Smart Transformers can offer the flexibility and controllability required to alleviate LV network constraints and discard the need for expensive and time-consuming network reinforcement. Nonetheless, there are technical and commercial challenges to allow rolling out this technology. SP Energy Networks have been conducting a project called LV Engine aiming to design a fit-for-purpose Smart Transformer for grid applications. This paper shares the developments to date from this project and the expected commercial benefit to a network utility by using this technology.