Amprion And Smart Wires Have Successfully Tested Modular Power Flow Control Technology

Amprion has carried out extensive studies and technical analyses of Smart Wires’ modular static synchronous series compensator (m-SSSC). The SmartValve is intended to distribute power flows more evenly across circuits, and herewith increase utilisation of lines and contribute to system stability.

“The pilot project has shown that SmartValve is an innovative technology with potential to use the grid more efficiently and to reduce the need for redispatch in the future,” said Dr. Hendrik Neumann, Chief Technical Officer of Amprion.

The SmartValve can optimally utilise the capacity of the lines through targeted load flow changes (increase or decreasing power flows on a circuit). The transmission grid can be controlled in a better way and minimise the expensive use of power plants in congestion management. SmartValves are individual modules that can be expanded into larger deployments, depending on the system needs. The technology is easy to transport, thus can be used in more flexible way at different locations. The new technology can thus complement conventional large and phase-shifting transformers (PST) and introduces new use cases and applications.

“We are very pleased about the successful completion of the preliminary technical studies and the fact that such a reputable and competent transmission network operator as Amprion did not identify any technical reservations regarding the use of SmartValve on the Amprion network. Since the start of our cooperation, SmartValve projects have been carried out in the USA, Australia, England and Austria, to name just a few examples. We now look forward to the next steps within the context of the ambitious climate targets of the new coalition government,” said Dr. Susanne Nies, General Manager Germany of Smart Wires.

The climate targets of the EU and of the German government are accelerating the transformation of the power grid in Europe. In addition to the necessary grid expansion, more innovative technologies are being used for more efficient capacity utilisation. The German grid development plan also opens application of such technology in addition to new expansion project.