Low Voltage Grid Monitoring & Control
At SMIGHT we are helping Distribution System Operators (DSOs) to enable the energy transition whilst maintaining grid stability; by giving them the tools they need to digitise their grid and thereby bring transparency into their low voltage networks.
We do this by offering IoT enabled current and voltage sensing technology, which is installed across all phases on secondary substation and distribution cabinet feeders.
The Problem SMIGHT Addresses
The energy transition is revolutionizing electricity grids, significantly elevating the role and stress on low voltage networks. This is due to their use in charging electric vehicles (EVs), operating heat pumps, and deploying rooftop solar panels.
Historically, low voltage networks were predictable and did not require advanced monitoring and management.
However, this has changed with the growing complexity brought about by the ongoing energy transition. Consequently, there is an escalating demand for what are termed ‘smart’ grids.
The SMIGHT Solution
At SMIGHT, we contribute to the energy transition by aiding distribution network operators in achieving transparency within their low voltage networks. This increased transparency enables operators to optimize their networks, pinpoint and resolve congestion, prioritize reinforcement and development efforts, and validate and improve the accuracy of simulations and digital models. Essentially, we empower network operators to take charge and stay ahead of the evolving landscape.
Our approach involves providing voltage and current sensors that are installed on all phases of the feeder cables in secondary substations and distribution cabinets. We deliver a comprehensive solution that encompasses communication, validation, capture, and presentation of measurement data via an intuitive web-based interface. We have prioritized a system design that is quick and straightforward to set up and install by the network operator’s staff, even while the lines are active, ensuring no disruption occurs.
The SMIGHT
Hardware
SMIGHT Gateway
Our gateway serves 4 core functions:
- Measures the voltage level
- Collects and holds the sensor data
- Transmits the data to the server
- Recieves updates and implements them across the sensors and itself
One Gateway is required per substation or distribution cabinet and can host up to 20 sensors which equates direcly to 20 feeders.
SMIGHT Grid2 Standard Sensor
- Our Our split-core current transformers can be installed on cables with a cross-section of up to 185 mm²
- They perform energy harvisting to power their own electronics, and communicate via bluetooth to the gateway
- This means there’s no additional wiring getting in the way
SMIGHT Grid2 Sensor Flex
- Designed for larger diameter cables and tighter installation scenarios
- Our flex sensors can’t perform energy harvisting, thus they need a sparate power supply
- We provide this power supply along with the innovative and simple-to-use CONLOX connectors from Laniol along with the necassary tools
The SMIGHT
Setup Process
Step 1 – Setup within the Account Admin
The initial step occurs in the office before any installations. Using our intuitive account administration site, you can configure your users, network areas, substations, and distribution cabinets. During this phase, we record the names, locations, and attributes of the points you wish to monitor.
Step 2 – Installation of the Sensors and Gateways
The subsequent step involves physically installing the sensors and gateways at the designated sites. This task can be performed by your technicians without the need for special qualifications. Typically, for average-sized substations, the installation process takes less than an hour.
Step 3 – Pair the Devices with the ‘backend’
By utilizing our app and scanning the QR codes on the devices, the technician can assign the gateways and sensors to the substation and feeders that were configured in the system admin at the start of the process.
The SMIGHT
Software
SMIGHT IQ Cockpit
- SMIGHT IQ gives DSOs the ability to see a top level overview of their whole network and then hone in on the critical points and drill into underlying data to deduce causality
- It is web based so no specialist software is required
- All your data is available to export either directly as a CSV file, or via an API for other systems to be able to use
The SMIGHT Services
We run the so called ‘backend’ so you don’t have to. As part of your solution and service offering we run all the required IT infrastructure to ensure a seemless operation of the system. This includes:
- Data validation & Storage
- Data Transmission
- Security & Backup
- Device administration & monitoring
- Software updates
The SMIGHT
Use Cases
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More InformationSMIGHT Grid2 supports you in the following areas:
- Strategic grid planning with live data
- Renewal of operating assets
- Precise load management
- Grid connection inquiries
- Operational decision-making on the basis of data
Don’t take our word for it, see how Stadtwerke Fellbach are using our system.
Identify Flexibility / Load Management Requirements
Identifying the need for flexibility or load management essentially comes down to pinpointing load peaks. This process is straightforward within SMIGHT IQ, as we capture the loads and the fuse ratings, which correspond to the thresholds. We perform this at a feeder level, which is crucial. With the data collected by our system, Distribution System Operators (DSOs) can determine not only where flexibility is needed but also when and to what extent. Moreover, this can be achieved almost in real time. Such detailed granularity unlocks a vast amount of flexibility potential within the low voltage grid.
Prioritize Reinforcement Work
Distribution System Operators (DSOs) have limited resources, making it crucial to allocate them where they are most urgently needed. Without transparency in the low voltage grid, reinforcement work may be executed where it isn’t really needed.
SMIGHT IQ offers a straightforward overview, enabling easy identification of critical points within the network. Over time, the collection of data also allows for the quick identification of trends.
Utilize Unused Network Capacity
Network utilization varies accross any given network, which is a standard occurrence, indicating the presence of underutilized capacity.
Identifying this unused potential allows Distribution System Operators (DSOs) the opportunity to access this additional capacity within their network.
Feed Simulation Models
Simulation software and digital twin technologies are only as effective as the data they receive. By comparing estimated data with actual real-world data, one can identify incorrect assumptions and inadequate input data.
This leads to significantly more precise and, consequently, more valuable models, which in turn guide better investments.
Optimize Network Usage
Neutral line loads, resulting from phase asymmetry, cost Distribution System Operators (DSOs) a significant amount of money in line losses, which ideally should not occur. In extreme cases, this can lead to failures due to excessive loads for which the neutral lines were not designed.
The issue of phase asymmetry is exacerbated by EV chargers. Although they are typically installed across all three phases, they do not use all three phases equally during the charging process.
About us
SMIGHT is an expanding team with a headcount ranging from 30 to 50 professionals. Our expertise bridges the domains of Grid operations and IoT Technology.
Our solution is already being used by over 100 DSOs throughout several European nations and that number is growing.
SMIGHT’s systems are operational in approximately 4000 substations, capturing over 100,000 measurement points every minute. Our offering is more than just an appealing concept; it’s a proven, reliable, and trusted solution addressing a genuine issue.
As a subsidiary of the EnBW AG Group, we merge the agility and dynamism of a startup with the robust reliability that comes with the support of a large corporate entity.
