While international standards require DSOs to maintain certain voltage ranges to guarantee the reliability and quality of electricity supply for end users, the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) and distributed energy resources (DERs) can cause unpredictable voltage fluctuations that complicate the control of voltage levels within the established limits. In this context, on-load tap changer (OLTC) transformers support the adaptation of voltage to fluctuations in load, generation and power flows. With i-TRAFO, i-DE proposed a new secondary substation architecture equipped with an OLTC transformer and different LV supervision and automation solutions.
The use of OLTC transformers proved to offer flexibility in adapting LV grid voltage, minimise power losses and help maintain power quality. Overall, the adoption of OLTC transformers represents a much more cost-efficient solution compared to traditional grid reinforcement, optimising investments necessary for the integration of EVs and DERs.
