Active response: operational optimisation of soft power bridges & soft open points on distribution systems

The Active Response project, led by UK Power Networks, aimed to address the challenges posed by the increased electrification of load due to the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and other low carbon technologies (LCTs). From 2018 to 2023, the project focused on demonstrating hardware and software solutions for distribution feeder management and optimisation using innovative power electronic devices (PEDs) called Soft Power Bridges (SPBs) and Soft Open Points (SOPs) manufactured by Turbo Power Systems (TPS). These devices were optimised during live operation using a Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS) provided by Smarter Grid Solutions (SGS) and Resource Innovations (RI). The project was completed in two phases, with the first phase focusing on offline optimisation and proof-of-concept, and the second phase on operationalising the trials. The trials demonstrated significant benefits, including improved network capacity, enhanced fault level and voltage control, cost savings, and environmental benefits. Key learnings include the effectiveness of high voltage (HV) and low voltage (LV) switching, the importance of LV monitoring, challenges with SOPs and SPBs, and the integration of live data.