Novosibirsk State Technical University has developed a unique technology for creating local power supply systems (LSE) based on small generation with intelligent control. This technology is patented and has already been put into commercial operation.
A unified energy system operates in most Russia, from which energy is supplied to distribution networks. This is a classic scheme for a centralized power supply. In recent years, alternative sources of low power have appeared, and distributed small generation is developing on a large scale. In microdistricts remote from the center, it is advantageous to have a power plant commensurate with the needs of the residential community, which is cost-effective. However, such a station operates under variable load conditions and is not always able to ensure the reliability and quality of power supply. To avoid power supply disruptions, it is necessary to include the local system in the general centralized electrical network. NSTU NETI has developed a control technology that solves the problem of low-cost and safe connection of a power plant of a local power supply system to a centralized network and its subsequent efficient operation.
"The development opens the way for the large-scale application of distributed small generation as a modern addition to the existing centralized power supply system, which is interesting for investors due to its locality, independence and efficiency. The technology was applied at the Berezovoye housing estate, where frequent power supply disruptions occurred. The local intelligent power system (Minigrid) itself is unmanned. An auto operator understands the situation, makes decisions, AND changes the operating mode of the power plant. Thanks to the automatic control of the LSE modes integrated with the external electric network of the centralized power supply, the LSE can work effectively both independently and in parallel with the external electric network. This solution solves the problem of reliable and cost—effective energy supply," said Alexander Georgievich Fishov, Professor of the Department of Automated Electric Power Systems, Doctor of Technical Sciences.
According to him, the effect of the development is to increase the reliability of energy supply to consumers, increase the economic efficiency of local power supply systems, and significantly reduce the payback period of local energy infrastructure facilities.
The development may be of interest to the electric power industry, developers solving the problems of energy supply at new sites, large energy consumers interested in reducing energy costs, and gas and oil producers.