Siemens shines spotlight on power distribution

The exhibits, at the international conference for power distribution systems, will range from grid planning solutions to intelligent transformer substations with compact switchgear and regulated transformers, energy storage devices, network control systems, and energy automation systems for distribution networks. It will also feature decentralised energy management systems and systems for network monitoring.

The fluctuating infeed of renewable energy sources is making it increasingly difficult to operate power distribution grids that are already under enormously stress. Aging infrastructures, non-technical losses, and capacity bottlenecks are additional challenges in power distribution worldwide.

Siemens offers a portfolio of solutions to address these challenges as well as to convert traditional distribution networks into smart grids.

But these future grids need to be planned before the conversion can take place. At CIRED, Siemens grid planning experts bring their many years of experience and technical expertise to show how customised smart grid solutions can be developed in collaboration with network operators.

“We will also utilise the Smart Grid Compass grid planning and consulting tool and the PSS Sincal network planning system, a tool for the calculation and design of utility and industrial networks. Following the analysis and planning phase, these tools provide an implementation plan for future smart grids. In addition, the Smart Grid Compass can be used to develop appropriate business strategies,” said Siemens.

At CIRED, Siemens will demonstrate that the implementation of smart grids relies on sophisticated IT and communications solutions operating in conjunction with the requisite hardware. These include intelligent transformer substations with a regulated distribution transformer and communications-capable medium-voltage switchgear that control the load flow in a smart grid.

With 8DJH Compact, for the first time Siemens is showing a new gas-insulated medium-voltage switchgear for secondary distribution grids up to 24 kV.

Thanks to the 8DJH Compact’s smaller footprint, new urban transformer substations, for example, can be built on a smaller scale, which makes them even more cost-effective. This communications-capable switchgear is especially well suited for modernising existing compact stations and converting into intelligent transformer substations as part of a smart grid.

Also on exhibit at the booth, the Siestorage modular battery storage system from Siemens is an additional tool for controlling the fluctuating infeed of renewable energy sources.

At CIRED, Siemens will also present Sicam energy automation solutions that make it possible for smaller substations and distribution stations to connect to the central automation system while also facilitating safe, reliable network operations management.

The Sicam FCM (feeder condition monitor) network condition-monitoring system – with integrated short-circuit indication as well as network condition and load-flow monitoring – ensures transparency in the cable network.

Siemens will use its Linux-based Spectrum Power system platform for network control centers as an example of efficient energy management in power distribution networks. Demonstrations will include how components can be integrated for specific applications according to a modular concept, and how it is easier than ever to connect other IT systems. At CIRED, Siemens will illustrate how the DEMS decentralised energy management system can be used to control distributed power plants and loads: for example, in a virtual power plant. In addition, Siemens will introduce a demand response management system (DRMS) that can be used to manage numerous loads.

Siemens will round out this year’s range of smart grid exhibits with the Siguard PSA (protection security assessment). Using this technical solution along with the corresponding service from Siemens, network operators can improve and further develop their protection systems in a grid. This assessment tool makes it possible for the first time to systematically evaluate the selectivity of the protection system in larger grid areas with decentralized energy sources and different operating conditions.

Energy-efficient, eco-friendly solutions for setting up intelligent power supply networks (Smart Grids) are part of Siemens’ Environmental Portfolio. In fiscal 2012, revenue from the Portfolio totaled about 33 billion euros, making Siemens one of the world’s largest suppliers of eco-friendly technologies.