Method of assessment of the state of charge and voltage level in the electric power distribution network. Implementation in the improvement of supply quality

Abstract

Nowadays in order to know in real time the level of charge existing in a distribution network, the installation of a remote infrastructure of operation and supervision is necessary, allowing an immediate view of its electrical state, both normal operation as well as in case of incident. The analysis of the state of the network provides useful data for the adequate planning of organised maintenance, which in turn also leads to better results and serves as a basis for establishing adequate objectives of substitution or growth of the network. Nevertheless, setting this type of operation and conservation structure up in low voltage levels of distribution requires high levels of investment with lengthy repayment periods, which cannot be met by all the distribution companies. This paper proposes a low cost, short-term method of assessment of the state of charge and voltages in the distribution network, which aids the carrying out of a specific directed maintenance which in turn lowers the incident rate and provides clear objectives for improvement plans based on preventive methods. The proposed method is based principally on the details of customer invoicing, making it the ideal solution where a system of invoicing by telemetry is being used.