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www.npl.co.uk
Power Quality Propagation
and Source Location
Problem
How does a new load/generator disturb the grid ?
In a given network do these disturbances decay
or resonate ?
Can an unknown disturbance be located ?
Solution
Use multiple GPS synchronized digitizers at
locations in a grid
Reconcile PQ results with network impedance
and topology.
Investigate source location triangulation
technique from GPS synchronized measurements.
PMUs in Distribution Networks
Problem
Critical decisions to manage grid stability are based on PMUs outputs.
PMUs in distribution grids require: 1) improved phase discrimination,
2) higher PQ immunity 3) response to dynamic signals.
Solution
Dynamic Performance of PMUs
Compare new PMU algorithms with signals
of varying frequency, magnitude and phase.
Modify existing PMU calibrator to generate
dynamic signals.
Test new algorithms on-site.
Calibrating PMU Calibrators
Commercial PMU calibrators need traceability.
Characterize the waveform output of the calibrator.
Improve NMI capability by a factor 10.
Network Impedance Measurements
Proposed work
Measure impedance using 2 PMUs either end of a grid section.
Impedance is low, so a small voltage diference must be measured.
Extend to harmonic impedances
PMU/PQ Transducer
Measurements
Problem
Transducers are a vital part of the PMU
measure ment chain.
Frequency response errors will distort captured
waveforms.
Non-invasive CTs have positional and rotational
repeatability issues.
Solution
Characterize the frequency response of VTs using
distorted voltages.
Optimize the design and use of non-invasive CTs.
DSP techniques to correct digitized waveforms.
Aim: to develop, demonstrate and validate new measurement tools for
Smart Grid operational stability and power quality.
This poster describes a new 3-year (June 2014 to May 2017) metrology project to develop and apply measurement systems
in Smart electrical grids. The project involves 14 NMIs and 5 Universities. The project is supported by over 30 industrial and
academic stakeholders.
Smart Grid Power Quality and
Stability Measurements in Europe
P.S.Wright, J.P. Braun, G. Rietveld, H.E. van den Brom and G. Crotti

National Physical Laboratory, Queens Road, Teddington, Middlesex, TW11 0LW, UK
paul.wright@npl.co.uk
Smart Grids Measurement Needs
Early warning of Instability Identify areas of the grid where demand
exceeds supply avoids blackouts.
A life support monitor for Smart Grids - Phasor Measurement Units
(PMU), in multiple locations to manage stability.
Power Quality (PQ) Disturbances understand the impact of
disturbing connections to the grid
PQ Disturbance radar locate major sources of poor PQ for
mitigation and enforcement.
Grid topology and impedance - for grid planning, analysis and
mitigate of disturbances.
Transducers Accurate level transformation, essential for the PMU
measurement chain.
Smart Grid Test Sites
Bornholm Island Test Site
28 000 Customers
Wind Power 36 MW
CHP (biomass) 16 MW
PV 2 MW
Biogas Plant 2 MW
5 District Heating Plants
Alliander LiveLab
EDF Concept Test Site
3 km of MV grid, 7 km of LV grid,
2 secondary substations,
A residential area with 5 smart houses
Power Networks Demonstration Centre
typical 11kV and 400V networks
replica primary substation
Oosterschelde Ring
6 PMUs in 50 kV ring with 5 substations
and 40 km cables
Signifcant RES generation
This research is part of the European
Metrology Research Program (EMRP), jointly
funded by the EMRP participating countries
within EURAMET and the European Union.