How much is enough? Measurement technology in the low voltage…
E.ON and RWTH Aachen University are working together to determine how much measurement technology is needed in low-voltage grids to reliably assess grid status.
With the rise of decentralized power generation and new energy consumers, accurate knowledge of grid conditions has become increasingly important for targeted grid expansion and consumer management.
The Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) has set clear requirements under Section 14a of the Energy Industry Act (EnWG). If grid status data is collected solely through smart metering systems, 15% of household connections must be equipped with them. However, if data from ONS feeders is also utilized, this requirement drops to 7%. Whether these benchmarks are optimal, excessive, or too low is now the subject of scientific investigation.
Fewer sensors, more efficiency?
Since 2022, E.ON has been exploring this question in collaboration with the Institute for Electrical Systems and Grids, Digitalization, and Energy Economics (IAEW) at RWTH Aachen University. An initial study using synthetic measurement data suggested that fewer sensors than required by the BNetzA may suffice—especially in rural areas. The study found that equipping only 5–10% of grid customers, combined with transformer measurements, could provide accurate grid monitoring in many cases.
From simulation to measured value
In June 2023, E.ON, IAEW, and grid operators Westnetz and Avacon launched a follow-up project to validate these findings using real-world data. Under the project title “Validation of Smartification Strategies in the Low-Voltage Grid Using Real Infrastructure,” four low-voltage grids from E.ON Labs’ Avacon and Westnetz areas were equipped with advanced measurement technology.
Key project features include:
• Digitized local grid stations: Equipped to monitor voltage, current, and active power.
• Smart metering systems (iMSys): Installed in 70% of connected households, providing real-time TAF10 data every minute.
• Data monitoring and challenges: Real-time data is analyzed to evaluate grid status while addressing challenges such as data gaps and measurement errors.
The study aims to determine if the BNetzA’s equipment requirements are necessary or if fewer installations can achieve the same level of grid monitoring reliability. This question is critical, as implementing BNetzA specifications universally would incur high costs, particularly in rural areas, where simpler solutions might suffice.
The project’s findings, expected by the end of the year, will play a key role in shaping E.ON’s future smartification strategy. If successful, the results could lead to significant cost savings while maintaining reliable grid monitoring.
www.iaew.rwth-aachen.de
www.eon.de
Source: 50,2 Magazine for smart grids