GRID CONNECTIONS
Niko’s specialist engineers are widely experienced with the grid and network connection of synchronous and inverter-based generation, from concept evaluation all the way through to commissioning.
Increasing the proportion of energy supplied by renewables requires a rethink of many fundamental design principles, to ensure the electricity network continues to operate reliably.
The steps we undertake for a new connection include:
- Project Management
- Concept Evaluation
- Connection Application
- Commissioning
Further detail on these services is provided below.
1. Project Management
Stakeholder liaison, Facilitation of testing
2. Concept Evaluation
Feasibility Studies.
3. Connection Application
The process for connecting new generation in New Zealand and Australia is subtly different and requires deliverables to be prepared in the format expected by the relevant stakeholders. These activities include:
For NEW ZEALAND
- Connection studies report
- Power quality analysis
- Asset Capability Statements (ACS)
- Equivalence documents
For AUSTRALIA
- Connection studies report
- Power quality analysis
- Voltage control strategy
- Power Systems Design and Settings Datasheets
- Dynamic Model Acceptance Testing
4. Commissioning
Again, the process is different for New Zealand and Australian connections:
For NEW ZEALAND
- Electricity Industry Participation Code (EIPC) test plan
- Operational test plans
- Load schedules
- Model validation
For AUSTRALIA
- Test plan & procedure
- Load schedules
- Hold point testing/ R2 validation
- Primary Frequency Response (PFR) assessment/testing
Software tools
Niko has broad experience using the prevalent power analysis software used in each region (including PowerFactory, DSA Tools (PSAT/VSAT/TSAT), PSS®E and PSCAD).
As each software has different strengths, it is common for more complex projects to use multiple packages to evaluate different aspects of the generator performance.
OUR LATEST PROJECT
Detailed modelling studies for Prospective Solar Farms
There has been a dramatic up-surge recently of clients requesting detailed modelling studies for prospective solar farm developments.
As these studies are needed at a very early stage in the consideration of a development, most engagements of this nature are covered by Non-Disclosure Agreements. These prevent Niko from publishing any specific details of the project.
The studies generally include modelling load flow and voltage profiles at different load factor situations, plus modelling harmonic distortion and fault conditions. Earthing testing and design is often included also.
Recent reviews completed, under way, or at proposal stage include Distribution connected farms in the range 10 – 20MW and Grid connected farms up to 80MW capacity. Engagements come from a mix of Solar Developers, Equipment Vendors and connected Network Companies.
Niko’s wide grid and sub-transmission experience puts us in an ideal position to provide this service, and we welcome approaches for future projects.
For further information about this project, feel free to contact our engineer, Rob Orange at: rob.orange@niko.nz
