How can using the correct transmission equipment improve efficiency?
We can improve efficiency, reduce the need for diesel or gas generation and bring down emissions through the correct use of electrical distribution and transformers. Here are some considerations to get the most out of your equipment:
Load management
Switchgear allows for efficient distribution of electrical power by controlling where and how electricity flows. By effectively managing loads, switchgear can optimise the use of available power sources, reducing the likelihood of overload and the need for additional generation.
Reducing energy loss by transporting over long distances
Power can be transmitted more efficiently over long distances with minimal losses. Using transformers to step up voltage for long-distance transmission, lowers losses during transmission due to lower current to be transported, leading to fewer emissions and reduced generation requirements. Using transformers for step down voltage for local distribution, also leads to more usable voltage and efficient distribution of power at the points of use.
MV transformers
Using transformers to step up the voltage for transmission reduces the current, decreasing resistive losses in the transmission lines. This leads to more efficient power delivery and lower emissions from power plants.
Equipment sizing
Using transformers that are appropriately sized for their load, improves efficiency. Undersized transformers can overheat and waste energy, while oversized transformers operate inefficiently at low loads. Properly sized transformers ensure optimal performance and energy use, leading to fewer emissions.
Balancing load
Ensuring transformers are used in a way that balances the load across phases can reduce energy losses and improve overall system efficiency.
Voltage regulations
Transformers with built-in tab-changers can be adjusted to the voltage requirement of the installation and can optimise the voltage supplied to consumers, reducing energy consumption and lowering emissions. This is particularly effective in systems with variable power loads.
Renewables
Transformers are crucial for integrating renewable energy sources like wind and solar into the grid. By stepping up the voltage from these sources to match the grid, transformers enable the efficient use of clean energy, reducing the reliance on fossil fuel forms of generation and the emissions associated with them.
Maintenance
Transformers equipped with sensors and monitoring systems can predict and prevent failures, ensuring they operate at peak efficiency. Preventive maintenance reduces downtime and potentially the need for additional backup power.
Lifecycle management
Maintenance and replacement of old, inefficient transformers with more efficient models significantly reduce energy losses and emissions over time.
Microgrids
Proper distribution equipment and transformers support the creation of microgrids, which can operate independently from the main grid and incorporate renewable energy sources.
How can using the correct transmission equipment improve efficiency?
Power factor
Using the right equipment can correct power factor, reducing the amount of reactive power in the system. This results in more efficient power usage and less strain on the generation capacity, ultimately reducing the need for additional power production.
Improved reliability and reduced maintenance
Equipment features such as continuous monitoring can act as proactive diagnostics and prevent system malfunction, minimising downtime and the need for additional back up diesel or gas generation.
Renewable energy
Power distribution enables the integration of renewable energy into off grid or on grid systems, such as wind or solar. This negates or reduces the need for traditional diesel generation to reduce emissions of a project. Distribution also enables the integration of Battery Energy Storage Systems.
Reliance on the grid
Distribution equipment supports the integration of smaller independent systems, removing reliance on carbon intensive grid systems.
Efficient cables and conductors
Using conductors with lower resistance can significantly reduce losses in the low-voltage distribution network, translating to less energy wastage and lower emissions.
By implementing these advanced power distribution technology, the efficiency of the power grid is improved, reducing the total energy required to meet demand and thereby decreasing greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production.
Using SF6 free switchgear
SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) free switchgear is designed to reduce the environmental impact of electrical power distribution. SF6 is a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential significantly higher than CO2. Our newest developed transformers are equipped with switchgear which is SF6 free.