Applications of Phasor Measurement Units in distribution grids - Practical return of experience

Abstract

Phasor Measurement Units are a well-established technology in high voltage transport networks, but lately they have proven to be useful in medium voltage networks as well. Integrating this technology in MV networks presented various technical challenges, such as the use of an adequate transducer or the access to a reliable communication network. Several concrete applications have been tested and validated in multiple Proof of Concept (PoC) PMU architectures in Belgium. The prediction of parallel couplings exchange current between two substations via the monitoring of the phase angle difference between them has been tested and validated in various locations. Thanks to a long-term monitoring, a planning of such manoeuvers can be established to guarantee successful operations. Finally, transient recordings of phase angle events as well as short-circuit power estimations are additional PMU applications which have been assessed and that bring additional observability to the DNO on its network stability.