Learnings

Outcomes

The project installed seven of the eight systems delivered by Low Carbon Electric.  The first was installed in our operational training centre where it can be viewed by appointment.  The remaining six cabinets are in Hampstead Heath, Finchley, Coulsdon, Brighton, Walthamstow and North Sheen.  

The project has been able to demonstrate the autonomous operation of the PSS system can balance the demand.  In addition a significant reduction in network losses and current flowing in the neutral conductor was demonstrated.  An assessment of the usefulness of the system to defer network reinforcement can only be estimated as it is dependent on load growth along the LV feeder. 

Lessons Learnt

The project tested the PSS cabinet at the Power Networks Demonstration Centre. During this time, various tests were carried out to confirm that the system could be approved for connection to LV distribution networks.  Different types of fault were applied and the impact noted.  Different frequencies in the range of 48 Hz to 52 Hz were applied to check the system continued to function. Despite this, there is no substitute for real life testing.  Long term energisation and loss of communications could only be assessed with actual installations.

Despite the cabinet meeting permitted development criteria, informing the council of installation plans and meeting customers near the intended installation location is essential.  It avoids complaints and lengthy correspondence after the cabinet is installed.

Make sure you have a contingency plan when components fail.  The firmware in the controller had a few bugs which were only identified after lengthy trials.  These bugs sometimes caused a fuse to operate.  Timely operation of the changeover switch avoided supply interruptions.