Evaluating grid development strategies for a regional grid using dynamic line rating sensors
Challenge and objective
Many Norwegian grid companies have installed dynamic line rating (DLR) sensors in their regional grid to operate the grid closer to its real capacity.
Sensor data is currently not used for regional grid planning.
It is also becoming possible to adapt probabilistic planning criteria, where the grid company may consider having N-1 (redundancy) less than 100 % of the time.
Work performed
A regional grid planning methodology was developed to use DLR instead of the traditional seasonal line rating (SLR).
The methodology also uses probabilistic risk criteria, here called N-X, as opposed to the traditional N-1.
An anonymous Norwegian grid company provided data for a case study of their regional grid (132 kV) to test the methodology.
Significant results
DLR gives more reserve capacity that allows for a higher increase of load demand in the grid without grid investments.
Acting upon this information as part of a grid development strategy corresponds to the real option of postponing the decision to make grid investments.
Impact for distribution system innovation
The results demonstrate that the use of sensor data and probabilistic planning criteria enables the grid company to make better regional grid investment decisions.
Adherence to the N−X criterion over the planning horizon for a cut set in the regional distribution grid for the Base scenario
