Distribution network operator UK Power Networks has installed its first smart substation in a trial for analysing power flows and redirecting energy where needed.

The substation in Maidstone, Kent, is the first in a series to be equipped to communicate with other sites, which could allow more distributed generators to connect to the network across the south-east of England.

The Constellation trial is installing computers in existing substations to analyse power flows, redirect energy to optimise infrastructure and cater for future needs. The digital substations will use AI and machine learning to allow more energy to be safely released onto the network, and help accelerate the UK’s transition to net-zero carbon emissions.

If the trial is successful, more smart substations could allow network operators to shift the settings dynamically, freeing up to 50% of additional capacity when it is safe to do so.

Allington Energy from Waste has become the first distributed generator to connect to the system, with a dedicated smart substation installed at its Maidstone site. A further five smart substations are set to be installed throughout the south-east of England as part of the trial.

While these digital options are already live on the Constellation platform, UK Power Networks will continue to develop and trial new methods, unlocking offerings that could easily be introduced onto the platform in future.

“This is a ground-breaking innovation for our network, and the first of a series of smart substations which could make a real difference for our customers and the environment,” said Luca Grella, head of innovation at UK Power Networks (www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk). “Enhancing the service provided to our energy-generating customers, and making our network more resilient in the process, will go a long way to preparing our network for a decarbonised future, and will allow more renewable energy resources to connect.”

Juergen Schaper, operations director at FCC Environment (kentenviropower.fccenvironment.co.uk), which owns and operates Allington Energy from Waste, added: “As one of the UK’s leading waste and resource businesses, we focus our efforts on generating heat and power from waste that cannot be recycled. Supplying that power to an ever more resilient network via this new smart substation is a positive step forward as we too prepare to support the decarbonisation efforts of the UK.”