The increasing distribution of decentralized power generation plants on the low-voltage network levels is a challenge for the safety and reliability of the generators and networks. Here, in particular the interface between generation plant and network represents a material part of the future "Distributed Generation" scenario. Within this, the network interface fulfils a great number of various tasks and ensures safety during the operation of the plant and network safety. In this context, in particular the safe and reliable detection of network defects as well as securing the supply quality are material prerequisites for an optimal integration of decentralized generation into the distribution networks.
At present, in particular the safety issue of the switching-off of the plant in the case of failure of the power supply network is not resolved in a satisfactory way and this may not only result in a materially reduced availability and profitability of the plant, but also may affect the quality of the network by a high rate of defect triggering and influences.
Within the framework of scientific research, the Energy Department develops pioneer procedures and methods, which ensure a reliable functioning of the safety facilities in the most different network configurations and states without negatively affecting network quality.
Practically oriented laboratory tests and field tests as well as current cooperation with manufacturers (safety and quality tests according to national and international standards) ensure this development’s suitability for daily use.
roland.bruendlinger@ait.ac.at