Farmers have long cultivated the rich soils of Norway, but today they’re harvesting a new kind of crop-solar energy. As solar panels sprout up across the country, the power generated often exceeds consumption, leading to energy excess that causes grid instability. Lede, a visionary Norwegian Distribution System Operator (DSO), is confronting this challenge head-on, pioneering solutions to cultivate stability in their green energy landscape.

The challenge 

In the remote Norwegian countryside, one farmer’s solar PV system is thriving. However, its bountiful production during peak sunny months pushes the local grid beyond its capacity, causing overvoltage issues. Norwegian regulations stipulate that DSOs like Lede must intervene and stabilize the grid. Facing a costly dilemma of either upgrading infrastructure-digging new trenches and laying down extensive (and expensive) wiring-or performing daily manual transformer adjustments, Lede needed a solution that was both effective and economically viable.

Lede’s innovative approach involved engaging with Sintef in a state-sponsored BaSS study, utilizing simulations in Matlabs Simulink to better understand how a battery energy storage system with smart inverters could successfully relieve the voltage issues through Phase Balancing and Voltage support. 

The solution

Lede chose to collaborate with Pixii, installing a single PowerShaper cabinet. Pixii’s sophisticated BESS, equipped with smart inverter technology, not only manages overvoltage; it introduces a streamlined approach to grid management, minimizing the physical and financial disruptions associated with traditional methods.

The Benefits 

First and foremost, the Pixii system restores balance to the grid, automatically adjusting to fluctuating energy levels to prevent operational disruptions at the farm. This primary benefit of voltage support significantly reduces the need for manual grid adjustments, enhancing grid reliability and efficiency.

The true ingenuity of the Pixii system, however, lies in its value stacking capabilities. Under the Norwegian DSO Research regulation, Lede can leverage the Pixii PowerShaper’s capabilities to be ready for participation in the Nordic Fast Frequency Reserves (FFR) and Frequency Containment Reserves (FCR) markets. Although the system is not yet actively participating, this readiness opens up potential future revenue streams, marking a strategic shift towards a more dynamic grid management model.

What’s more, as Lede expands the deployment of these distributed BESS units, they are effectively cultivating a virtual power plant, incrementally increasing the value generation from FFR and FCR participation, improving overall return on investment.

“With the Lede project, our PowerShaper system demonstrates its strength in seamlessly integrating into existing grid infrastructures, enhancing both stability and sustainability without the extensive costs typically associated with upgrading grid capabilities.”

Ivan Schytte, Manager for Metering and Connectivity,  Lede

The results  

With growing anticipation for the installation of this pilot project, other DSOs, inspired by successful trial initiatives like Lede’s case, are beginning to recognize the vast potential of battery storage systems. A major DSO on the west coast of Norway is already rolling out multiple Pixii systems, integrating them into their network to harness similar benefits.

The unfolding story of Lede is proving that the future of energy can be as sustainable as it is profitable. With each installation, Lede is not just managing energy effectively; they are growing a greener future, one solar panel at a time.  

Fact (Did you know?)  

Line voltage is influenced by several factors such as impedance, and the balance of consumption and production along the line. Typically, voltage increases with high production and decreases with high demand.

Background

Lede is a progressive Norwegian Distribution System Operator (DSO) known for its dedication to enhancing energy distribution efficiency and reliability across Norway. They manage and maintain the electricity distribution network, focusing on sustainable practices and innovative solutions to meet the evolving energy needs of their consumers.

Project contacts
Pixii Oslo
E-mail: Show Email
Visiting address: Sommerrogata 13-15, 0255 Oslo

Project manager Pixii
Henrik Krogsæter
Product Manager On-grid Applications
Tel. +47 47 809006
E-mail: Show Email

Download the case study

Cultivating currents: Lede DSO sows seeds of solar success with Pixii