From functions to benefits: insights into integrated substations

As an important part of modern power systems, integrated substations undertake the core task of power transmission and distribution. More than simple power conversion points, they integrate a wide range of functions to meet the growing demand for electricity and enhance the reliability and efficiency of the power grid.  

Integrated substation basic functions

1.Voltage Conversion

The core function of an integrated substation is to convert high voltage power through transformers to lower voltage power suitable for industrial, commercial and domestic use, to suit different transmission and distribution needs.

2.Distribution of power

Substations distribute the power coming from the power plant to various areas and consumers. Switchgear and distribution equipment ensure that power is distributed safely and efficiently to each user.

3.System liaison

The integrated substation connects different grid systems through liaison lines of different voltage levels to ensure the stable operation of the grid and optimise the allocation of power resources.

4.Frequency control

An integrated substation can control the frequency of the grid by regulating equipment to maintain the stability and reliability of the grid.

5.Load regulation

Substations use voltage regulation, phase regulation and other technical means to adapt to the changes in the grid load to meet the power required at different times and in different areas.

6.Fault isolation

When a fault occurs in the power grid, the integrated substation can quickly cut off the faulty part, prevent the fault from spreading, and protect the other parts of the grid from being affected.

7.Information monitoring and control

Modern integrated substations are equipped with advanced monitoring systems, such as SCADA systems, which can monitor the operating status of the grid in real time and carry out remote control to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the grid.

Importance: ensuring grid reliability and stability

As urbanisation accelerates and the demand for electricity in densely populated areas rises sharply, the role of substations in the supply of electricity becomes particularly important. Integrated substations ensure that power reaches end-users safely even after transmission over long distances through efficient voltage conversion and distribution. In addition, they are fault-tolerant and self-healing, enabling rapid isolation of problem areas in the event of a partial system failure and ensuring that the power supply to the majority of users is not affected.

Technical characteristics of integrated substations

Intelligence

Using information and network communication technology to remotely control and automate substation operation and maintenance. Intelligent substations can handle faults automatically. They can optimise operational performance and reduce human error.

Integration

The integration of multi-functional equipment makes substations smaller in footprint and easier to maintain. At the same time, the integrated design helps to reduce construction and operating costs.

Modular

The modular design allows substation facilities to be quickly expanded or upgraded in response to changing grid requirements and technological developments.

Environmentally friendly

New substations use environmentally friendly materials and technologies to reduce their impact on the environment. For example, oil-free or low-noise transformers and switchgear, as well as optimised cooling systems, reduce energy consumption and emissions during operation.

Benefits of Integrated Substations

1.Improving energy use efficiency

Through efficient transformers and sophisticated power dispatching, integrated substations can effectively convert high-voltage power into voltage levels suitable for different needs, minimising energy losses in the transmission process. At the same time, modern substations use intelligent scheduling systems to optimise the allocation and use of power, thus improving the energy efficiency of the entire grid.

2.Enhancing the reliability and stability of the power grid

Through advanced protection and control systems, the integrated substation is able to monitor the status of the power grid in real time and respond quickly to various types of electrical faults, ensuring the continuity and stability of the power supply. In addition, the multi-level protection mechanism of the substation can effectively isolate faults, prevent problems from spreading, and guarantee the overall safety of the power grid.

3.Supporting renewable energy access

With the widespread use of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, integrated substations provide a flexible technology platform to support the safe and effective access of these unstable energy sources to the grid. The substation can adjust its operation mode to cope with fluctuations in renewable energy capacity and ensure balanced operation of the grid.

4.Promoting the development of the power market

Integrated substations can adapt to the needs of the power market and realise cross-regional power trading. Through efficient power transmission and distribution networks, the substation makes long-distance power dispatching possible, further promoting the optimal allocation of power resources and the healthy development of the power market.

5.Environmental protection and social responsibility

Modern integrated substations emphasise environmental protection and energy conservation in their design and operation, using silent and low-emission equipment to reduce the impact on the surrounding environment. At the same time, the intelligent upgrading of substations also reduces reliance on personnel and lowers operation and maintenance costs, reflecting the concepts of social responsibility and sustainable development.

Future outlook

Integrated substations are expected to play an even more important role in building grids with cross-regional, high-efficiency and low-carbon characteristics. As the concept of the ‘energy internet’ takes hold, substations are not just nodes for unidirectional energy distribution, but also platforms for multiple energy interactions. This requires substations to have more advanced energy management and optimisation capabilities to adapt to the complex and changing energy supply and demand relationships.

In addition, with the global emphasis on environmental protection, future substation construction will pay more attention to reducing the impact on the environment. For example, the use of silent transformers and environmentally friendly insulating oils, as well as the incorporation of green building concepts in site design, will both ensure the efficiency of power supply and promote sustainable development.

Conclusion

Integrated substations are an integral part of modern power systems, and their development and innovation will have a direct impact on the sustainable use of energy and the security of electricity supply. By continuously optimising their technology and functionality, integrated substations will continue to play a central role in the global energy transition and the modernisation of power grids.