Kick-off for the expansion of low-voltage grids
The increase in the number of domestic devices such as heat pumps, electric vehicle charging stations, photovoltaic systems as well as residential batteries is having a significant impact on the low voltage regulation sector as it boosts the need for constant control and multiplies data management.
Since it came into effect in January 2024, the amended Section 14a of the German Energy Industry Act obliges grid operators to use dynamic grid-oriented ad-hoc control, which can be implemented using smart metering systems and control boxes. In view of the still low level of smart meter deployment, it essential to monitor the load flows on the individual low-voltage feeders using telecontrol technology in order to be able to make informed decisions about possible reductions in households.
To enter this new low voltage market, the German business unit of LACROIX, LACROIX SAE, renewed its offer last May, with the launch of its ‘series5X’, a new generation of remote management unit together with its dedicated software platform setIT V8. This end-to-end, cyber-secure and easy-to-install solution has been designed to meet new market needs as closely as possible.
LACROIX SAE, whose DNA is based on customer proximity and the ability to create the best offer with their customers, has entered a partnership with Stadtwerke München GmbH. The Munich municipal utilities have a total of 6,000 transformer stations in their network, some of which are to be equipped with telecontrol technology in the next few years. To kick off the partnership, LACROIX SAE will deliver and install 150 retrofit solutions and 40 new local network stations in the network this year, for a total of €500,000.
“The aim is to make the low-voltage level more visible and to make grid operation more efficient through automation,” said Thomas Aumüller, head of rehabilitation of transformer station and overhead line team of Stadtwerke München GmbH, which was set up specifically to implement the project over the years in the best possible way.
“The low-voltage grid holds untapped potential for telecontrol technology – it is the key to the efficient energy distribution of the future,” says Daniel Wittmaack, LACROIX SAE Business Unit Director.
The integration of telecontrol technology in low-voltage grids enables improved monitoring, control and optimization of energy distribution. By using this technology, grid operators can increase grid stability, reduce energy loss and integrate renewable energy more efficiently.
According to LACROIX estimates, equipment for the medium- and low-voltage network substation market will enjoy double-digit annual growth over the next few years.