Utilization of smart measurement technologies to improve medium voltage switchgear sustainability

Medium voltage (MV) switchgear, a crucial element in electrical networks, consumes energy. This consumption can be significant over its lifetime. Two main factors contribute to this: electronic devices for operation and energy losses in the primary circuit (converted to heat). New technologies offer solutions to improve this situation. Electronic instrument transformers (sensors) are replacing traditional transformers, leading to substantial energy savings. These sensors, based on principles l ike Rogowski coils, are smaller, safer, and offer wider functionality with lower energy consumption. Losses in traditional instrument transformers (current transformers [CT] and voltage transformers [VT]) come from the magnetic circuit and current flow through windings. Sensors eliminate these losses due to their different design – no magnetic circuits. This reduction in energy waste translates to improved sustainability. The adoption of sensors is growing but remains slower than anticipated despite their benefits. Rising energy costs further highlight the need for these efficient alternatives. This paper offers based on calculation and practical measurement by how much these components are more efficient. The difference in losses between the primary circuit of the switchgear including the LV compartment in switchgear in comparison with losses in the instrument transformers and sensors is about 1%. Therefore, this article focuses on losses in transformers and sensors.