The interactive network project was launched in order to improve the distribution grid’s energy efficiency and performance. The tested area is supplied by the Pierre-Bouchon station that services primarily the city of Boucherville. The project aims to verify that Volt and VAR optimization systems help to reduce energy consumption and distribution grid losses without affecting the power quality delivered to clients. It also aims to test the performance, compatibility and integration into the operations of all technologies tested (refer to chart).

The Project has three components:

• Distribution Management System (DMS) and Volt & Var Optimization (VVO) component
• Electric Vehicle (EV) Recharging component
• Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI) load control component

Results

For the DMS (Distribution Management System) with CATVAR (voltage regulation and reactive power control), new features have been added to the current grid management tool, making it possible to demonstrate the feasibility and performance of CATVAR technology. CATVAR features will be further developed in a DMS-type commercial tool.

A major step was taken in reactive power management. This is the first time the transmission provider’s reactive power needs have been taken into account by the distributor in reactive power management of the distributor. To date, only Hydro-Québec has managed to achieve integrated real-time reactive power management.

For DMS with integrated voltage control – CATVAR (voltage regulation and reactive power control), proper grid modeling is essential (equipment specifications, phasing, load pattern). In particular, voltage imbalance on the distribution grid poses a real challenge when voltage level optimization is required to reduce energy consumption. As well, system calibration requires that voltage measurement be done at client level. Finally, collaboration with the transmission network allows for improved optimization of energy reductions. During deployment of the automation project, it was necessary to revise the design of the control boxes in order to ensure a more seamless visual and environmental integration in urban areas. This experience shows how important it is to inform public agencies that may be affected by the various projects as soon as possible.

Electric vehicle charging stations have been acquired for laboratory testing of their performance in our weather conditions and for pilot tests in real installations. A simulation tool has also been developed to assess the impact of electric vehicle charging on the distribution grid in terms of energy and power. Forty-eight charging stations have been installed and 30 electrical vehicles have been launched.

All in all, 5,800 new-generation residential meters have been installed as part of the AMI and load control component. The Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI) uses a meshed telecommunications network radio frequency technology. These meters transmit information to a data acquisition and archiving system. The data analyzed can be used to better understand the behaviour of energy and therefore better manage it.

Benefits to Canada

The Clean Energy Fund contribution to this project will accelerate the developing of “Smart Grid” renewable and energy efficiency technologies. The project will also assist electrical distribution utilities in adapting these technologies and hence in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Canada.