Volt/VAR Optimization (VVO)

Volt/VAR Optimization (VVO) & Conservative Voltage Reduction (CVR)

Minimize VAR Losses and Improve Distribution Grid Efficiency

Volt/VAR Optimization (VVO) optimally manages system-wide voltage levels and reactive power flow to achieve efficient distribution grid operation. VVO assists distribution operators reduce system losses, peak demand or energy consumption using Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) techniques.

Volt/VAR Optimization & Control is an advanced function that determines the best set of control actions for all voltage regulating devices and Var control devices to achieve a one or more specified operating objectives without violating any of the fundamental operating constraints (high/low voltage limits, load limits, etc.).

Volt/VAR Optimization includes Conservative Voltage Reduction (CVR) function that is used to calculate and maintain acceptable voltage (e.g. 120 V +/- 5%) at the service entrance of all customers served by the feeder under all possible operating conditions. CVR is used to flatten voltage profiles and lower overall system voltage while staying within the specified ANSI or IEC voltage limits. Overall system demand can be reduced by a factor of 0.7-1.0% for every 1% reduction in voltage. From a consumers perspective, this reduces the energy they consume. From a utility perspective it reduces the amount of power they need to generate or purchase from a generator.

Volt/Var Optimization & Control Key Features & Capabilities

Maximize voltage & flow security indices
Minimal reactive power losses & electrical demand via CVR
Optimizes power factor for the entire substation or individual feeders
Alert visualization on GIS Diagram
Based on time-of-day, static load profile, or averaged load
Control generator and inverter reactive power setpoints
Control capacitor bank or Static Var Compensator (SVC) setpoints
Adjust switched capacitors within the specified limits
Enhanced modeling for switched capacitor banks & distribution transformers
Control voltage regulators (transformer tap positions) within the specified limits
On Peak & Off Peak substation optimization settings for large customer
Automatic Power Factor adjustment under light loads such as holidays and weekends
Feeder voltage protection via voltage limit constraints

Benefits

Provides a higher level of visibility into system operating parameters and a greater degree of control to optimize energy efficient and reliable electricity delivery.
Assists in moving utilities move from 'flying blind' to operating with end-to-end instrumentation on feeders and automated optimization.
Assists in handling voltage volatility due to increasing penetration of intermittent renewable generation sources and increasing diversity and variability of loads.
Provides ability to optimize within operating parameters especially when running at the system capability limits.
Able to optimize power factor such that the utility has to generate less power to satisfy the demand of its customers. This further reduces environmental impact and CO₂ footprint.