Light and Cemig - Sinapsis

Light/Cemig

Technological Improvement Alternatives for Current and Future Underground Electricity Distribution Networks

START

05/2011

END

03/2014

OBJECTIVES AND METHODOLOGY

The project reevaluated the guidelines and criteria for the design, planning and standardization of underground distribution networks, considering the impacts of new technologies, including concepts and techniques associated with smart grids, in the Brazilian regulatory scenario. The main objective was developed as follows:

Reevaluation of the criteria for the applicability of underground distribution networks, according to alternative technologies of bare, compact and with isolated multiplexed cables networks;
Analysis of regulatory aspects, such as prudence and tariff impact;
Elaboration of planning methodology adapted to underground distribution networks, applicable both to new networks and the conversion of existing aerial distribution networks, considering future loading scenarios and expeditious costing method, based on simple pre-project rules;

Definition of topologies with lower unit construction cost and high reliability due to the balance between connection and automation redundancies;
Critical review of network standards depending on the location of application, including improvements and new concepts, considering the criticality of the operation, recovery times and OPEX;
Proposal of general application for the ordering and sharing of the use of the subsoil by several concessionaires, as well as restrictions and benefits of the use of equipment above ground in underground distribution networks.

MAIN RESULTS

The main product of the project was a planning methodology, which systematizes the stages of defining applicability, selecting the type of arrangement and preliminary costing of alternatives with underground distribution networks. In the case of conversion of overhead to underground distribution networks , the process considers the annual evolution of existing loads until the minimum conversion conditions are reached;
The regulatory agency itself will find in the results of the project relevant items for the establishment and improvement of the sector regulation;
Quality benefits of the service provided with the adoption of RDS.

The project contributed in a fundamental way to the rediscussion of the planning criteria, considering the inclusion of underground distribution networks as an alternative in new applications or for expansion. Likewise, there is a contribution to professional training in the field of underground distribution networks, an area with few specialists in the Brazilian electricity sector;
The project is expected to reduce CAPEX in future works on underground distribution networks;