Page 12 - Energize December 2022

INDUSTRY NEWS

C2: Power system operation and control have been removed from the ZA RPP code, measuring small harmonic levels are a
by Marathon Ntusi challenge. Should the values be capped? Big data analytics is becoming more important in
Managing a grid with high penetration the planning and operation of the future grid. Model verification is not a once-off exercise
of DERs is complex and requires close and should be done regularly to ensure that we have accurate models.
coordination and collaboration between EMT type studies are key in the future grid. Special protection schemes must be
transmission and distribution operators. considered. With an IBR dominated grid, fault current dynamics will differ. Grid-forming
To prepare for the energy transition it inverters are not the silver bullet they have been made out to be. Balance is required
is necessary to define operator training between grid-forming and grid-following inverters.
and digital training simulator (DTS)
requirements. No single technology C6: Active distribution systems and distributed energy resources
can address all power system needs. by Aradhna Pandarum
A variety of technical solutions are Concerns include the increasing penetration of PV, flexibility management and resource
required, including a mix of grid- management, considerations in planning and operational management requirements and
forming vs. grid-following inverters, new hybrid solutions, both grid-tied and customer solutions. Also the use of DER to enhance
ancillary services, etc. There is a need distribution reliability and resilience; the use of data and simulation tools and models
for a flexible approach to operational to guide planning solutions-transition towards temporal analysis; regulatory barriers;
planning analysis, communication across EVs; barriers when integrating DER/BESS technologies into the system; added benefits,
the supply chain, artificial intelligence- different use cases and charging approaches; virtual power plants (VPPs), all of which are
based solutions, etc. Power system aggregators enabling environments in South Africa.
characteristics are changing rapidly during
the energy transition which creates the Group D – New markets and IT
need for topology optimisation, special D1: Materials and emerging test techniques
protection schemes and other tools by Nishal Mahatho
to extend the capability of the power There is a need to maintain a greater interaction between sister groups in SA as D1 is
system. a cross cutter. Greater collaboration between D1 and A2 is needed and discussions in
South Africa are already underway. There is a need for a greater focus on predictive
C3: Power system environmental maintenance as observed in other countries. There seems to be a greater drive to
performance research innovative ideas and concepts, and pilot them to get a greater understanding.
by Rudi Kruger We need to push this. Although we do not have a large GIS base, it would help to look into
The power system of the future more aspects, especially alternative gases. In DC systems, we should focus our efforts on
will be the tip of the spear for a the transport of power with greater efficiency through cables, for example, and associated
decarbonised economy. The energy studies.
sector is moving rapidly towards reaching
net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. D2: Information systems and telecommunications
Technological innovations must focus by Thuthukani Nduduzo Biyela
on the development and deployment of It is imperative for South African electric power utilities to prioritise ICT investments,
long-duration storage and modernising such as digital twins (in operation and maintenance of EPU). AI has a potential to improve
the distribution grid. Sustainable asset management and cyber security. EPUs believe that the best way to develop artificial
development goals are receiving more intelligence solutions is by using a hybrid approach, with both in-house and outsourced
attention and the focus must be to teams. Local EPUs should use this strategy to increase the AI skills capacity to benefit
integrate this into business objectives from AI/ML. Integration of current and new wireless technologies is important in meeting
and targets. The environmental impact the requirements of power utility applications. Augmented reality (AR) technology has
of the energy transition with its drive a potential to increase the accuracy and safety of maintenance tasks. Mixed reality
towards renewable energy means that (i.e., the use of both AR and Virtual Reality technology is expected to be used in power
a proper relationship between wildlife utilities training and to assist engineers with asset maintenance. There is a need for
and electrical infrastructure must be detailed guidance on implementation of the standards, to configuration level for critical
established including partnerships parameters. More EPUs must increase cybersecurity collaborations. With most of the
between stakeholders, utilities and EPUs still in the process of migrating their TDM networks to packet, South African utilities
interested and affected parties. are not far behind and must continue with the programs of migrating to packet network.
Existence of legacy applications within the EPU power plants hinders the cost-effective
C4: Power system technical performance migration to pure packet. EPUs say that migration of TDM networks into packets and the
by Dr Brandon Peterson integration of DERs contribute to the increase of cyber-attacks. South African utilities
Pre-connection harmonic studies are must take cyber security into consideration when integrating DERs. Advanced security
cumbersome and time consuming; operations centres were identified as one of the most effective defensive mechanisms;
simulation results may lead to incorrect however, these SOCSs must comply with cyber security standards and regulations.
solutions being implemented. In South
Africa, where pre-connection studies Send your comments to rogerl@nowmedia.co.za

energize | December 2022 | 12