Design, testing and installation of a smart transformer

This paper describes the project to design, test, manufacture and install “Smart” distribution transformers in UK Power Networks license area. This project was partially funded by the Network Innovation Funding initiative (NIA) in the United Kingdom and UK Power Networks. The purpose of the trial was to install a transformer with electronic control of the voltage and power factor, with remote control and remote visibility of both voltage and power factor. Network efficiency and visibility of network performance were the prime drivers for this project, where considerable savings in energy usage could be achieved. The increasing deployment of EV chargers solar panel and embedded generation is beginning to require real time voltage control of the networks at the distribution level. The “Smart” transformers operated satisfactorily with the remote application access and produced the results expected. The project was closed down, with three transformers remaining connected to the network, although operating as standard transformers with no “Smart” controls. The concept of using electronic controls for transformers connected to distribution networks is worthwhile pursuing, albeit with perhaps a simpler and more cost-effective solution and to take into account the voltage drop for long low voltage feeders.