Smart5Grid Solutions for enhanced TSO grid observability and manageability in massive RES penetration environment

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Computer Networking
• Renewable Energy Systems

Background:

• The increasing integration of Distributed Renewable Energy Resources (DRERs) in power grids necessitates advanced communication solutions for improved control and monitoring.
• Existing power grid infrastructure faces challenges in managing the dynamic nature and bidirectional power flow associated with DRERs.
• The Horizon 2020 Smart5Grid project developed an Open Experimentation Platform (OEP) leveraging 5G capabilities to address these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the latency minimization potential of the Smart5Grid Open Experimentation Platform (OEP) for power grid applications.
• To demonstrate the OEP's contribution to enhanced observability and manageability of distributed renewable generation.
• To provide experimental evidence of 5G-enabled solutions' performance in smart grid environments.

Main Methods:

• Development and deployment of the Smart5Grid Open Experimentation Platform (OEP).
• Implementation of two pilot demonstrations: Millisecond Level Precise Distribution Generation Control and Real-time Wide Area Monitoring (WAM) using 5G virtual Phasor Data Concentrator (vPDC).
• Utilisation of specific software, methods, and experimental testbeds to measure OEP latency performance.

Main Results:

• Experimental data confirms the OEP achieves latency comparable to established wire-bound communication systems.
• The OEP demonstrated effectiveness in precise distribution generation control and real-time wide area monitoring.
• The platform offers inherent flexibility, scalability, and modularity, alongside high availability and reliability.

Conclusions:

• The Smart5Grid OEP provides a viable 5G-enabled solution for reducing latency in power grids with high DRER penetration.
• The platform enhances grid smartification by improving observability and manageability, crucial for integrating renewable energy sources.
• Openly accessible data from pilot demonstrations supports the validation and further development of 5G applications in smart grids.