Changzhou develops low voltage grid backup

  • August 13, 2024
  • William Payne

The electricity provider for Changzhou, a city of 5 million inhabitants in China’s Jiangsu province on the country’s eastern coast, has developed a low voltage power generator that can automatically connect to the region’s grid without interruption. The new low voltage system, based on diesel generators, can synchronise with the grid control system automatically allowing for immediate backup power to supplement grid sources during high demand or emergency outages.

Currently in the critical phase of peak summer demand in Changzhou, planned power outages can result in prolonged electricity disruptions for residents, severely affecting their lives in hot weather. To address this, the State Grid subsidiary in Changzhou spearheaded the development of the low-voltage diesel generator vehicle.

Beyond its quick deployment and intelligent operation, the vehicle’s key feature is its ability to integrate with the municipal power grid without the user’s awareness. This stealth mode of operation greatly enhances the electricity user experience and improves power supply reliability.

“Automatic parameter adjustments are made through the generator’s onboard grid synchronisation control system, allowing direct connection to the low-voltage network for seamless power continuity, effectively solving the problem of requiring two brief interruptions typical of traditional low-voltage generation methods,” explained Zhao Zhong, a staff member at State Grid Changzhou Power Supply Company. During this operation, State Grid Changzhou Power Supply Company carried out four tests on the generator’s grid connectivity and disconnection under no-load and fluctuating load conditions. Rapid integration was achieved without the need for bypass switches, using a set of power cables and busbar clamps, an approach that is more convenient, cost-effective, and adaptable compared to traditional grid connection methods used within the province. The technical specifications of the low-voltage grid-integrated generator vehicle have all reached the expected targets.

This year, State Grid Changzhou Power Supply Company has been exploring power generation under various scenarios. They have now implemented several new power generation modes that complement grid maintenance and construction, such as “uninterrupted operations + medium and low voltage joint generation,” “integrated UPS vehicle + low voltage generation,” and “unnoticed grid-integrated low voltage generation.” Going forward, Changzhou Power Supply Company will continue to push for the adoption of such innovative technologies and equipment, constantly improving the level of electrical services and providing users with an enhanced power experience.