Grid Code Compliance Protects Smart Grids

The tremendous growth of decentralized generator units is placing considerable demands on the stable operation of energy grids. The tightening of grid code requirements in the wake of the energy transition has presented manufacturers of generator units such as CHP units, photovoltaic installations or wind power plants, with some major technical challenges and additional costs. At the same time state funding has been reduced. In the face of these conflicting factors, technical solutions for increasing efficiency and saving costs are a key benefit.

Grid regulation at the highest level

The Bachmann GSP274 module provides customers with one unit for grid measurement, synchronization and protection as an integrated solution for the M1 automation system. As plugin option for the main control device it combines parameterizable standard functions with the free programming capability and flexibility of the modular system. Grid and plant protection, Q(U) protection, FRT as well as all the standard monitoring functions (overvoltage/undervoltage, overcurrent, frequency, frequency gradient, imbalance etc.) are provided ready-to-use as tested functions. Separate devices for grid measurement, synchronization and protection become unnecessary, and likewise any time-consuming integration requirements and interface problems are eliminated.

Synchronization in real time

Configuration, commissioning diagnostics and fault analysis are carried out in the SolutionCenter engineering tool through intuitive graphical interfaces. All (protection) events are entered in the logbook on the module and the integrated data recorder logs synchronization and trip operations together with preceding time behavior in real time. An export function to the international COMTRADE format (IEEE C37.111) is provided for analyzing multiple grids. Access control and password protection are naturally also provided such as the optional time synchronization of distributed plants using the IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol or SNTP.

Certified protection functions

The GSP274 module was extensively tested by TÜV Nord and has the relevant component certificates for connecting generator units to all voltage levels (Grid Code Compliance): VDE-AR-N 4105, DIN VDE V 0124-100, BDEW directive, FGW TR3, FGW TR8.