The Volt/VAR Optimization (VVO) management ensures the most efficient operation of the distribution grid by effectively managing voltage levels and reactive power flow. VVO helps distribution operators decrease system losses, peak demand, and energy consumption through the implementation of Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) techniques.
Volt/VAR Optimization & Control is a cutting-edge feature that identifies the optimal set of control actions for voltage regulating devices and VAR control devices. This function ensures that one or more specific operating objectives are met without compromising any of the essential operating constraints, including high/low voltage limits and load limits.
Conservative Voltage Reduction (CVR)
Volt/VAR Optimization incorporates a feature known as the CVR function. This function calculates and upholds the ideal voltage level at the service entrance for all customers being served by the feeder, regardless of the current operating conditions. This guarantees that the voltage is always maintained within acceptable limits.
The purpose of using CVR is to ensure consistent voltage levels, effectively reducing system voltage and staying within the prescribed ANSI or IEC limits. By adopting this approach, consumers are able to minimize their energy consumption significantly. Moreover, it enables utilities to effectively reduce the amount of power they are required to generate or purchase from external sources.
Also See: What is System Maximum Operating Voltage?
Features and Capabilities of Volt/Var Optimization and Control
The following are the features:
- Improve the indices of voltage and flow security to their maximum potential.
- Maximize energy efficiency and reduce power wastage by implementing Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR).
- The power factor optimization service is available for both the entire substation and individual feeders.
- Enhance the visualization of alerts on the GIS diagram.
- The load can be determined based on the time of day, the static load profile, or the average load.
- Adjust the reactive power set points for the generator and inverter to enhance control. Adjust the set points of the capacitor bank control or Static Var Compensator (SVC).
- Ensure that the switched capacitors are adjusted within the specified limits.
- Improved modeling techniques for switched capacitor banks and distribution transformers
- Ensure the control of voltage regulators (transformer tap positions) stays within the specified limits.
- Optimizing the substation settings for large customers during peak and off-peak periods.
- Achieving automatic power factor adjustment during low-demand periods, such as holidays and weekends.
- Protection of feeder voltage using voltage limit constraints
Also Read: What is Integrated Volt Var Control (IVVC)?
Benefits of Volt/VAR Optimization (VVO)
With its capabilities, Volt/Var Optimization & Control offers the following benefits.
1. It offers enhanced visibility into system operating parameters and increases control to maximize energy efficiency ensuring a reliable electricity supply. Don’t miss out on 16 ways to increase solar panel efficiency
2. Provide assistance in transitioning utilities from the uncertainty of operating blindly to implementing a comprehensive system that includes end-to-end instrumentation on feeders and automated optimization.
3. Assists in managing voltage fluctuations caused by the rising presence of intermittent renewable energy sources and the growing diversity and variability of loads.
4. Offers the opportunity to enhance performance within operational parameters, particularly when operating at the limits of system capabilities.
5. Volt/Var Optimization & Control optimize the power factor in such a way that utility companies can meet the customers’ demands without requiring excess power generation. This is how it helps in reducing carbon footprint further decreasing environmental impact.
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