Project Type: Distributed PV & Energy Storage Grid Connection Points
Completion Date: November 2024
Location: Suburban Geelong, Victoria, Australia
End User: Regional Distribution Network Service Provider (DNSP) & Renewable Energy Investor
Core Requirement: Providing standardized, modular grid connection points for a community-scale PV & storage cluster (Total Capacity: 1.2 MWp)
This project involved the supply of 24 sets of 200kVA Compact Prefabricated Substations, integrating medium voltage protection, metering, transformation, and low voltage distribution functions, specifically optimized for high Distributed Energy Resource (DER) penetration scenarios.
| Category | Model & Specifications | Qty | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Substation | PREMS-200/22-0.4 | 24 sets | Single transformer, integrated 22kV RMU & 0.4kV distribution |
| MV Ring Main Unit | 22kV SF6 RMU (2-in, 1-transformer, 1-out) | 24 units | Fault indicator, automation-ready interface |
| Distribution Transformer | 200kVA, 22/0.4kV, Dyn11 | 24 units | Low-loss (P0≤280W, Pk≤2200W), C5 corrosion protection |
| LV Intelligent Distribution Board | 400V, 1600A busbar, IP65 | 24 sets | Integrated PV/Storage grid-tie breaker, power quality monitoring |
| Data Acquisition & Communication Unit | DER-Gateway (IEC 61850 compliant) | 24 sets | Supports AS 4777.2:2020 grid connection code |
| Auxiliary Systems | Climate control, lighting, security, fire protection | 24 sets | Integrated within enclosure |
Fully prefabricated design with 95% factory assembly and testing
Requires only a level concrete base, on-site installation <8 hours per unit
Standardized interfaces support future expansion up to 500kVA
Bidirectional Protection Coordination: Reverse power protection, anti-islanding, voltage ride-through
Advanced Metering: Compliant with NMI M 6.0, supports net metering and bidirectional energy recording
Harmonic Management: Optional built-in active filtering ensures THDi <3%
Fast Frequency Response: Complies with AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 requirements (response ≤2s)
Protection Rating: Overall IP54 (internal compartments IP65)
Corrosion Protection: C5-M grade coating for coastal/industrial atmospheres
Thermal Management: Intelligent climate control for reliable operation from -10°C to +50°C
Dust & Pest Protection: Fully sealed design with insect screens and dust filters
Built-in RTU supports IEC 61850, DNP3, Modbus protocols
Real-time monitoring of transformer temperature, load factor, power quality
Supports remote configuration, fault diagnosis, and software updates
Integrated security gateway compliant with Australian Energy Sector Cyber Security Framework
Phase 1 (Pilot): 2 units delivered for site validation and local compliance certification
Phase 2 (Bulk): 22 units delivered in three batches at 4-week intervals
Local Collaboration: Installation and commissioning completed with a Melbourne-based electrical contractor
Electrical Safety: AS/NZS 3000 & AS/NZS 61439 series
Grid Connection: AS/NZS 4777.2 & local DNSP requirements
Environmental: AS/NZS 5139 (Electrical equipment environmental design)
Communication: IEC 61850-7-420 (DER logical nodes)
Factory Tests: Full type tests (temperature rise, short-circuit withstand, PD <5pC)
Site Tests: Protection logic verification, SCADA point-to-point, power quality tests
Trial Operation: 72-hour continuous load test (simulating 100% DER penetration)
Grid Connection Efficiency: Transformer efficiency ≥98.7% (@50% load)
Voltage Regulation: Within ±2% (0-100% load fluctuation)
Fault Response: Local protection operation time <80ms
Availability: >99.9% since commissioning
Accelerated Renewable Integration: Single-point grid connection process reduced from average 12 weeks to 4 weeks
Reduced Grid Impact: Cluster power smoothing via smart controls deferred network upgrade needs
Lower O&M Costs: Predictive maintenance reduced on-site inspection frequency by 60%
Data Value: Provided DNSP with granular DER operational data for optimized network planning
