DTEK Grids launched low-voltage network online monitoring system using Swiss technology
The pilot project was implemented by the DTEK Kyiv Grids Distribution System Operator, which is part of the DTEK Grids Operating Holding. The pilot project was launched in Kyiv, the Sovki and Zhulyany microdistricts with small house suburbs, where customers receive electricity through low voltage overhead lines (0.4 kV). These lines most of all are not protected against external damages.
The company's energy workers installed smart sensors onto the overhead lines and transformer substations that monitor the power grid in real time. Previously, the company implemented similar automation and network monitoring projects only on medium and high voltage lines. For the first time, such technology is now used on low voltage overhead lines.
Depsys (Switzerland), the DTEK's partner, provided state-of-the-art equipment and digital technologies for the project. This company focuses on digital processing of power grid data and develops solutions for leading energy companies in Europe and Asia. The pilot project was developed by the DTEK Grids Advanced Technologies Department, which is engaged in R&D projects and Innovation DTEK.
“We are consistently introducing automation and digitalization technologies to turn Ukraine’s networks into a Smart Grid infrastructure, which is reliable, flexible and sustainable. Owing to network monitoring, our energy workers can immediately respond to failures and act proactively, eliminating potential deficiencies and network failures. Such innovative projects help us to deliver modern and high-quality service for our customers,” says Ivan Geliukh, CEO of DTEK Grids.
This system not only monitors damages and failures, but it accurately shows a specific place of breakage or other damage. If lines are not equipped with such equipment, then it takes a lot of time to find out where the failure is. In addition, the system constantly analyzes the quality of power supply - the level and stability of voltage in all sections of the network. Before the advent of this technology, the company learned about problems on low voltage overhead lines only after getting reports from customers or during scheduled inspections. Owing to this innovative project, the energy companies will be able to act proactively, which will improve the quality of services for customers.
At the first stages of the pilot project, it was possible to find defective network sections that needed to be repaired. For example, on one of the streets, the voltage dropped to 180 volts during peak hours, and it met the standards the rest of the day. It is possible to identify such specific defect only by monitoring and analyzing the network data. The company's energy workers did phase balancing and ensured a stable voltage in accordance with the current quality standards at the level of 220 volts.
“DTEK is transforming its business by introducing European standards of customer service. The pilot project with depsys is an example of DTEK's successful interaction with customers, one of the main stakeholders within the open innovation approach, which we at Innovation DTEK use in our work,” says Emanuele Volpe, Chief Innovation Officer at DTEK.
The company is now analyzing the results of the pilot project and developing plans to scale it.