Substation with overhead lines in a green agricultural landscape under a blue sky
ProjectsHow AI creates more space for solar power in the electricity grid
BKW Power Grid
How AI creates more space for solar power in the electricity grid
More and more photovoltaic systems are feeding electricity into the grid. At the same time, heat pumps, electric cars and households are changing consumption patterns. BKW Power Grid uses digital grid models and artificial intelligence to continuously monitor and automatically control the voltage. This allows the existing electricity grid to be used more flexibly and more solar power to be integrated.
At a glance
Project facts
CountrySwitzerlandBusiness areaBKW Power GridProject statusIn useTechnology areaDigital grid models / Artificial intelligenceSectorEnergy supplyUseVoltage control and grid management in the distribution gridStory typeTechnical referenceProject typeModernisation
When electricity flows in both directions
In the past, electricity flowed primarily from large power plants to households and businesses. Today, when the sun shines, many photovoltaic systems feed electricity into the grid at the same time. In the evening, consumption rises again due to households, electric cars and heat pumps.
This changes the role of the distribution grid: it must distribute electricity reliably while also absorbing energy from many decentralised systems. Voltage is particularly important. Local feed-in can increase it, while high consumption can reduce it. However, it must remain within a specified range so that devices can function safely and the grid can be operated reliably.
High-voltage metering pointsMedium-voltage metering pointsRecalculation intervalFrom measurement value to control
AI supports grid control
A large electricity grid cannot be controlled manually on a permanent basis. Too many measurements, installations and changes have to be taken into account at the same time. Digital grid models and state estimation therefore create an up-to-date picture of the grid status. On this basis, AI calculates suitable voltage settings and adjusts them automatically at substations. The employees in the control centre monitor the result and can intervene at any time. The situational overview also supports the assessment of connection requests and grid planning.
Two people are looking at several monitors with charts and data while a woman points at a screen.
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BKW Power Grid develops digital grid models and intelligent solutions for operating the electricity grid. Measurement data, state estimation and AI provide a continuously updated situational picture. Based on this, the voltage in the grid can be dynamically adjusted. The employees in the control centre monitor the results and intervene if necessary.
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