Implementation of the active power compensation control system, monitoring of circuit breaker status, and remote management on the low voltage side for a photovoltaic farm.
Photovoltaic farms are a key element in the transition to sustainable energy, but their efficiency and energy stability require advanced technological solutions. The project of implementing an active power factor compensation control system, as well as monitoring the status of circuit breakers and remote management on the low-voltage side, carried out by ANIRO, is an example of innovative solutions in the field of energy management and power factor compensation in photovoltaic farms. The following case study outlines the main challenges, the technologies used, and the benefits brought about by the implementation of the system.
Project Description
The photovoltaic farm was connected to the industrial plant by two 15 kV medium-voltage cables, each exceeding 1 km in length. The farm generates energy with a maximum capacity of 2 x 7.5 MW, which is transmitted to the plant for direct use. Due to the nature of the installation and the requirements for efficient power management, the implemented system aimed to ensure reactive power compensation and maintain an appropriate power factor, as well as monitor the status of circuit breakers and provide remote control capabilities.
Technical Challenges
1. Managing reactive power on a large scale
The energy generated by the photovoltaic farm often introduces an excess of reactive power, which can reduce the efficiency of the entire power supply system. To control it, an active compensation system was designed, which responds to changes in load on both the farm and the industrial plant sides.
2. Long-distance energy transmission
Due to the long distance (over 1 km) between the solar farm and the plant, the project required a stable communication system that enables efficient monitoring and control of electrical parameters in real time.
3. The need to maintain active and reactive power parameters.
A high power factor is crucial for ensuring the stability of the grid. The system was designed to prevent the power factor tangent (tg φ) from exceeding the specified limits in both the capacitive and inductive load directions, in order to avoid additional costs and increase energy efficiency.
Applied Solutions
1. Active Power Factor Correction (APFC) with SVG
To compensate for reactive power, four active power compensators with a capacity of 110 kvar per medium voltage line were used, totaling 880 kvar per line. The compensators operate directly at 800VAC (no additional transformer is required to match the power supply parameters) and are connected via RS-485 communication to the central PLC controller by LS Electric. The compensators dynamically respond to load changes, ensuring the stability of the power factor and reducing costs associated with transmitting excess reactive power.
2. Advanced control and monitoring system
The PLC controller receives data from the e2Tango protection relays installed in the plant’s switchgear, which measure electrical parameters at the settlement point with the Distribution System Operator (DSO). This allows the system to monitor in real-time parameters such as voltage, current, and power factor (tg φ). This enables precise control of reactive power and adjustment of the compensators’ operation to meet real-time demands.
3. Remote communication via fiber optic links
Due to the distance between the solar farm and the facility, the control system communication with the facility takes place via two fiber optic links. This allows for secure and fast data transfer, which is essential for monitoring and managing energy parameters in real time.
Results and Benefits
Thanks to the implemented solutions, the deployed system brought a range of operational and economic benefits:
1. Improvement in energy efficiency
The active compensation system allowed for maintaining the power factor at an optimal level, eliminating costs associated with the transmission of excess reactive power. Efficient management of reactive power also contributes to extending the lifespan of electrical infrastructure.
2. Stability and reliability
Real-time monitoring of electrical parameters ensures stable system operation, minimizing the risk of failure. Rapid response to load changes allows for real-time adjustment of parameters and maintaining grid stability.
3. Remote management and time savings
Thanks to remote access to data and the ability to manage devices through fiber-optic communication links, the system enables quick decision-making and diagnostics without the need for physical presence on-site.
The implemented project of the active reactive power compensation system, along with remote monitoring and management of parameters for the photovoltaic farm, is an excellent example of an innovative and advanced approach to renewable energy management. Thanks to the use of active compensators, an advanced PLC controller, and efficient fiber optic connections, it was possible to achieve high energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and ensure stable system operation. Such implementations not only enhance the competitiveness of businesses but also contribute to the development of sustainable energy sources.
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