Power system real-time thermal rating estimation

Abstract

This Thesis describes the development and testing of a real-time rating estimation algorithm developed at Durham University within the framework of the partially Government-funded research and development project “Active network management based on component thermal properties”, involving Durham University, ScottishPower EnergyNetworks, AREVA-T&D, PB Power and Imass. The concept of real time ratings is based on the observation that power system component current carrying capacity is strongly influenced by variable environmental parameters such as air temperature or wind speed. On the contrary, the current operating practice consists of using static component ratings based on conservative assumptions. Therefore, the adoption of real-time ratings would allow latent network capacity to be unlocked with positive outcomes in a number of aspects of distribution network operation. This research is mainly focused on facilitating renewable energy connection to the distribution level, since thermal overloads are the main cause of constraints for connections at the medium and high voltage levels. Additionally its application is expected to facilitate network operation in case of thermal problems created by load growth, delaying and optimizing network reinforcements. The work aims at providing a solution to part of the problems inherent in the development of a real-time rating system, such as reducing measurements points, data uncertainty and communication failure. An extensive validation allowed a quantification of the performance of the algorithm developed, building the necessary confidence for a practical application of the system developed.