How do you quickly evaluate the capacity of the distribution network to accept a new generation site? This article describes a software development project that provides information on the UK electrical distribution system and offers an initial assessment service for connection of generation plant. The information is presented on a map background and in automatically generated reports, and it is made available on a website.

By Christine Barbier, Peter Reay and Victoria Gosling, Econnect Ltd, UK, and Dave Curry and Angela Morgan, Imass Ltd, UK

Throughout the world bolts are tightened in accordance with procedures based upon the application of a predetermined torque. However, regardless of the accuracy to which the torque is applied, the actual load present in the fastener can vary by as much as 60%. Factors such as lubrication, thread fits, washer hardness and human error can all contribute to the variability when applying a correct load.

By Ben Walters, Managing Director, Scana UK Ltd, UK

In recent years, the amount of energy produced by wind energy converters (WECs) has increased greatly, meaning that grid operators now have to focus on the power generation characteristics of WECs. In 2003,  the German grid operator E.ON provided the first guidelines that stated new requirements on the power generation characteristics of WECs. These could not be fulfilled with the existing technology over the full range. The German research institute FGH decided to establish an accredited product certification body in accordance with the European standard EN 45011; this body certifies the conformity of power generation characteristics of WECs with the guidelines of grid operators.

The drawbacks of wind power from the power system point of view are its variability and unpredictability. However, these problems are greatly reduced when wind power is connected to larger power systems as these can take advantage of the natural diversity in variable sources. A large geographical spread of wind power will reduce variability, increase predictability and decrease the occasions with near zero or peak output. In this article, the situation in the Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden) is described.