Future Ready
Low Voltage Current Sensor Technology Evaluation
We collaborated with Western Power Distribution to evaluate low voltage monitoring solutions in a laboratory and on live electricity networks. Sensors from seven manufacturers were fitted at 28 substations.
Project-on-a-Page summary
Project data
Start date: 01/12/2011End date: 30/06/2013
Budget: £500,000
As Britain’s distribution networks become ‘smarter’, the need to improve visibility of the low voltage network is increasing. Monitoring of our low voltage network is currently limited. To maintain reliable power supplies in the future we need better monitoring to understand the impact as customers use more electricity and connect more renewable generation to our network.
- Evaluate current sensors from seven manufacturers
- Study low voltage monitoring techniques
- Consider wider roll-outs to support a low carbon future and minimise customer disruption
- Report on the results of individual tests and comparative assessments
- Develop safe installation procedures
- Comparison and benchmarking of various types of sensors
- Use of laboratory tests and field test trials to select monitoring equipment