D-Suite: Increasing Electrical Distribution Network Capacity through Partially Rated Modular Power Electronics
Low voltage electrical distribution networks are typically impacted first when customers connect new low-carbon technologies, so the transition to net zero is increasingly resulting in a new pinch-point for distribution network operators in terms of low voltage network capacity. Although the number of power electronic devices (PEDs) in distribution networks has greatly increased, these are largely customer-side interfaces for low carbon technologies, with very low uptake from utilities (distribution network operators, DNOs), limiting the ability of DNOs to control power flows on their networks. The £8m D-Suite project, led by SP Energy Networks, aims to introduce novel hardware and software approaches to support the mass rollout of DNO-owned PEDs, such as Soft Open Points, STATCOMs, and Smart Transformers. In particular, D-Suite advocates for a partially-rated and modular PED design, common across three PED types, to proposed to increase economic efficiency; and, a proposed design tool targeting automation of the PED selection process and enabling planning. T This talk will discuss the progress that has been made in the project in delivering these innovations and share latest findings, as the project is in its first phase on the road to stimulating a new market for PEDs in the UK.














































































