ABB Launches Line Voltage Regulator To Ease Integration Of Renewable Energy

New economic and environmentally friendly solution for voltage control contributes to the evolution of smarter and greener grids

ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, recently at the International Conference and Exhibition on Electricity Distribution (CIRED) in Lyon, France, formally launched its line voltage regulator (LVR) product family for distribution networks that will boost reliability as grids receive more electricity from renewable energy installations.

Increasing amounts of energy from renewable resources, especially wind and solar, lead to more dynamic and intermittent power entering the mix. This can result in instability and frequent variation of voltage levels in the distribution network, which can pose a risk to electrical equipment if beyond the maximum allowable level set by regulators. The line voltage regulator is designed to help manage these variations and adjust the voltage accordingly.

ABB offers line voltage regulators for medium-voltage (MV) and for low-voltage (LV) grids. The MV regulator is available for ratings up to 8 Mega Volt Ampere (MVA) and the LV regulator for ratings up to 250 Kilo Volt Ampere (kVA), and both allow the voltage to be adjusted by up to +/-10%. Both products are designed for quick installation and have low energy losses.

“This latest line voltage regulator can automatically adjust the voltage based on the actual load or generation mix in the distribution system, addressing a key stability challenge posed by the increasing amount of renewables entering the power network,” said Bernhard Jucker, President of ABB’s Power Products division. ”It can make an important contri¬bution in the evolution of smarter and greener grids. This development is in line with our Next Level Strategy, and addresses the dynamics of the evolving power grid.”

ABB developed the LVR in conjunction with Germany’s “Networks of the future/Smart Country” initiative. It has worked with the German utility RWE AG to test it on distribution grids in Germany, as well as separately in Switzerland where since 2014 it has been successfully smoothing out the typical voltage fluctuations generated by a solar power station in a rural area.

Recognized as the world’s largest transformer manufacturer, ABB offers a complete range of power, distribution, traction and other special transformers designed for reliability, durability and efficiency. It offers both liquid-filled and dry-type transformers as well as services for complete lifecycle support, including replacement parts and components.