Future LV distribution network design and current practices in the Netherlands

Abstract

The current distribution networks are going to be challenged by new developments on the side of generation and simultaneously also on the side of consumption. Therefore this paper provides an overview of LV network design aspects with emphasis on the implications of the future challenges on LV networks. The attention is especially given to the future aspect of the network design, substation automation, protection and mitigation of the issues accompanying distributed generation. The current operational and power quality measurements undertaken in LV distribution networks are presented as well as new additional measurements. The need to increase flexibility and assets utilization of LV networks is discussed together with the technical means enabling them. The outcomes related to the future LV network design are presented in conclusions.