Prefabricated modular substations: development pilot experiences

Prefabricated modular substations could help DSO:s to shorten the project execution time by up to 50%. This paper describes the DSO, Vattenfall Eldistribution’s, ongoing development pilot where the viability of this concept will be examined. The pilot includes prefab modular buildings for 46 and 12 kV metal-enclosed air insulated switchgear and the protection automation control system (PACS). Two different business models will be introduced in separate substation projects. Key technical and economic expectations from a pilot study are discussed. Preliminary results that support these expectations are presented. The methodology of the development pilot, including continuous status reports and building know-how, is described.