SSEN’s LEAN project successfully met its objective to develop and apply Transformer Auto Stop Start (TASS) technology to reduce losses at 33/11kV primary substations.
The key principal of TASS is to switch off one of a number of transformers in a primary substation at times of low demand to avoid the fixed iron losses associated with that transformer – akin to a car engine turning off when the vehicle isn’t travelling.
The TASS system provides local, automated control within the substation to monitor the loading and control this switching, and to respond to SCADA alarms and status information from other network assets. In addition, commands incorporated into the Distribution Management System (DMS) provide the central network Control Room with remote supervision and management capability. The technology has been deployed in primary substations on the SEPD network since June 2018, and over the formal twelve month trial period achieved energy savings of over 67 MWh in total across the two trial sites, with full operation reducing transformer losses by ~25-30%. No impacts on asset health due to TASS operation have been identified through the suite of testing and monitoring techniques applied.
The system continues to operate as designed, demonstrating the ability to both reduce losses and respond appropriately to different network situations, and the scheme design developed through the project provides a streamlined system for integration with existing assets to deliver the TASS functionality.
We have five key reports which detail the different aspects of developing, implementing and operating TASS technology:
Accompanying those formal reports we’ve created a suite of material which is all available to DNOs, product manufacturers and other stakeholders, including:
– guidance for considering how to implement TASS on other networks
– information on the scheme that we’ve designed and its installation & testing
– a framework for assessing the technical and financial viability of applying TASS to individual substations
– training material for operational staff, and
– all of the information relating to asset health and power quality, together with other material that may be useful for other innovation projects
Project Deliverables – Transformer Auto Stop Start
If you would like any further information on any aspect of the project, please contact the team via .