Voltage optimization on lv distribution transformers using batteries

Abstract

Due to an 18.3% increase in the number of new connection customers funded by the Free Connections Programs by Uganda Government and other development partners, Several people are being added on to the already existing Network. This has caused most areas to experience low voltages below -6% according to the Grid code especially during the Peak hours. The project is birthed from this background and its main purpose is to analyze the use of storage batteries as a mechanism of storing energy during off-peak hours which could later be used during peak hours.

The project is birthed from this background and its main purpose is to analyze the use of storage batteries as a mechanism of storing energy during off-peak hours which could later be used during peak hours. The project was made using both Matlab Simulink software showing the charging and discharging of the battery plus the dynamic nature of both the supply and the loads and the Digisilent software which performs the load flow analysis under steady state conditions and also shows the battery impact on the grid. The optimal placement of the battery energy storage system is firstly at the point when the voltage falls below 0.8pu and secondly as far away from the transformer or the terminal end of the circuit. With the Battery installation the voltage greatly improves and this reduces the diverse effects of low voltages and the commercial loss made by the utility company