Voltage regulators 15 kV, Poland

The task undertaken by #AltergaTeam involved installing a unit comprising three 15 kV VR-8 type regulators at the Skała network substation for Tauron Dystrybucja S.A. in Cracow. Our work involved:

• checking the entire installation
• programming and commissioning the unit
• handing over the regulators for use
• conducting specialist training for the teams operating the equipment

The investor chose our solution because they already had previous experience with voltage regulators (which we had also installed in the past). This time, they wanted to take advantage of an offer from a new, more competitively priced manufacturer with whom Alterga works.
For us, this was the first installation and commissioning of a voltage regulator unit based on a new type of regulator and controller. A particular challenge was programming the controllers, which turned out to be completely different from the solutions we had dealt with previously. The tap changer was also different from those we had installed up before.

However, #AltergaTeam always finds a way to tackle any complex task. After a thorough analysis of the situation and identification of the available options, we selected the best solution, which fully met our client’s expectations.

Our efforts resulted in the commissioning and operation of a fully functional 15 kV voltage regulation unit. This facility operates automatically and can be monitored and integrated with the SCADA system.
The VR-8 regulator station installed at the Skała substation was constructed on a foundation within the substation premises. It consists of three regulators with a rated current of 400 A connected in a delta configuration. The total power of these devices is approximately 10 MVA. The maximum voltage regulation range provided by the regulators is +/- 15% of the input voltage.

Given that the town of Skała is not connected to the 110 kV power line, this is an extremely important feature due to the significant load, the length of the 15 kV supply lines and the voltage drops that occur. In addition, the controllers of the installed voltage regulators can ensure appropriate voltage levels when operating in conjunction with the installed renewable energy sources.

The solution implemented will contribute to a significant improvement in voltage conditions in Skała and a marked increase in energy security in the region.