ISSUE 34

February 2024 transformer-technology.com ISSN 2642-2689

POWER SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY

E X P E RT
DISCUSSION
ON CURREN
DEVELOPME T
N TS
IN GREEN
ENERGY

GREEN ENERGY:
AN EVOLUTION,
NOT A REVOLUTION
Can Renewables & Battery ETOS® A successful transition to green
Storage be More Competitive The Future of Power energy emphasizes transformer
with Oil & Gas Plants? Transformer Management maintenance and reliability
C
 TRANSFORMER
Transformer Technology February 2024

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o
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4 TABLE OF
CONTENTS

Contents

Table of
12
From the Editor
A Perspective:

Index
Green Energy -
Where Do We Stand?

Table of Contents_04
Editors & Impressum_08
From the Editor: A Perspective_12
The Evolution of Battery Energy
Storage_14
14
Company Spotlight: Dragonfly The Evolution of Battery Energy
Energy_20 Storage
Can Renewables & Battery Storage
be as Reliable as Oil & Gas
Generation?_22
Barriers to Green Technology
Adoption: Implications for Power
Grid Infrastructure Growth_28
ETOS®: The Future of Power
Transformer Management_30
Green Energy: An Evolution, not
a Revolution – Power Panel
20
Discussion_36 Company Spotlight: Dragonfly Energy
Transformer Technology February 2024 5

Issue 34

22
Can Renewables
& Battery Storage be
as Reliable as Oil
& Gas Generation?

30
ETOS®
The Future of
Power Transformer
Management

36
28 Power Panel
Barriers to Green Technology
Discussion:
Adoption: Implications for Power Green Energy:
Grid Infrastructure Growth An Evolution,
not a Revolution
6 TABLE OF
CONTENTS

Contents
48

Table of
Going Green:
An Evolution,
not a Revolution
Index
Women of Note: Samantha Deeney,
Mitsubishi_47
Going Green: An Evolution, not a
Revolution_48
Solid State Batteries: Current Status
and Future in the BEVs Market_56
The Pacing of Solar Power 47 56
Integration in Industrial America:
Unraveling the Deliberate Stride_64
Women of Note: Solid State
Power Asset Monitoring: Renewable
Samantha Batteries:
Deeney Current Status
Energy Plants Differences Versus
Mitsubishi and Future
Utilities?_66
A successful transition to green
in the BEVs
Market
energy emphasizes transformer
maintenance and reliability_72
Fault Detection in MPPT Systems
Using Principal Component Analysis
(PCA): Enhancing Reliability and
Efficiency in Photovoltaic Power
Generation_74
Coming in March_84
Transformer Technology February 2024 7

Issue 34

72
A successful transition to green
energy emphasizes transformer
maintenance and reliability

64
The Pacing of Solar Power
Integration in Industrial America:
Unraveling the Deliberate Stride

74
66 Fault Detection in MPPT
Power Asset Systems Using Principal
Monitoring: Component Analysis (PCA):
Renewable Energy Enhancing Reliability and
Plants Differences Efficiency in Photovoltaic
Versus Utilities? Power Generation
8 EDITORS &
IMPRESSUM

Impressum TAB Executive Advisor,

The Chair and Managing Editor
Alan M. Ross, CRL, CMRP
Transformer maintenance
and reliability

Content Editor
Paula Čivrak

Technical Advisory Board (TAB)

TAB Executive Advisor
Executive Advisors
Corné Dames
Alan M. Ross, CRL, CMRP
The Chair and Managing Editor
Independent transformer consultant
Corné Dames Transformer oils
Independent transformer consultant
Transfomer oils
Ben Lanz, IEEE PES Senior Member
Power system reliability, asset management
and diagnostics
TAB Executive Advisor
Technical Advisory Board Members
Ben Lanz, IEEE PES Senior Member
Diego Robalino, PhD, PMP Power system reliability, asset
IEEE Senior Member management and diagnostics
Tony McGrail
Asset management & Condition monitoring
Edward Casserly, PhD
Senior Scientist, Transformer oils
Maria Lamorey TAB Member
Industrial OEM manufacturing Diego Robalino PhD, PMP
IEEE Senior Member
Alan Sbravati, ME, MBA
Transformer condition assessment
Transformer insulating materials
and diagnostics
Marco Tozzi, PhD
Diagnostics and asset monitoring
Curtus Duff
Power transformer design
Traci Hopkins, IEEE Member
Transformer Condition Assessment TAB Member
Alexander Doutrelepont Tony McGrail, PhD
High voltage bushings & insulators Asset management & Condition
monitoring
Ed Khan
Power Systems, Relay protection, Training
Randy Williams
Bushings, Medium voltage
Martin Robinson
Power systems technology and safety
Ahad Esmaeilian TAB Member
Grid edge solar Edward Casserly, PhD
Jeff Donato Senior Scientist, Transformer oils
Batteries and storage
Binesh Kumar
EV charging
Allan Rienstra
Ultrasound technology
Steven Watt TAB Member
Networking and communications for Maria Lamorey
utilities, Reliability Industrial OEM manufacturing
Transformer Technology February 2024 9

Issue 34

Editors

TAB Member
Marco Tozzi, PhD
Diagnostics and asset monitoring

TAB Member
Curtus Duff
Power transformer design

TAB Member
Traci Hopkins
Transformer condition
assessment

TAB Member
Alexander Doutrelepont
High voltage bushings & insulators
Publisher:
APC MEDIA LLC
2152 Caper Dr.
Marietta, GA 30064, USA
transformer-technology.com TAB Member
Ed Khan
Graphic design Power Systems, Relay protection,
BE Koncept Communication Boutique Training
Photo Cover
Shutterstock
Sales & Marketing
Daryl Allen
[email protected]
Kevan Sears TAB Member
[email protected] Randy Williams
Pierre Barras
Bushings, Medium voltage
[email protected]
Ante Prlić
[email protected]
Sales & Marketing Americas
Jose Mora
[email protected] TAB Member
Marketing Global Martin Robinson
Marin Dugandzic Power systems technology
[email protected] and safety
10

Editors

TAB Member
Chip Angus
Transformers maintenance
and reliability

TAB Member
Nancy Frost, PhD
Electrical insulation

TAB Member
Ahad Esmaeilian
Grid edge solar

TAB Member
Jeff Donato
Batteries and storage

ISSN 2642-2689 (Print)

ISSN 2642-2697 (Online)
DIGITAL Membership
Free TAB Member
Binesh Kumar
Power Systems Technology and Transformer EV charging
Technology magazine is a magazine published
by APC MEDIA LLC, 2152 Caper Dr., Marietta, GA
30064, USA. Published content does not represent
official position of APC MEDIA LLC. Responsibility
for the content rests upon the authors of the
articles and advertisers, and not on APC MEDIA
TAB Member
LLC. APC MEDIA LLC maintains the right to keep
Allan Rienstra
the textual and graphical documents submitted
Ultrasound technology
for publication.
Copyright and reprint permission
Abstracting is permitted with credit to the source.
Libraries are permitted to photocopy isolated
pages for private use of their patrons. TAB Member
For other copying, reprint or republication Steven Watt
permission requests should be addressed to Networking and communications
[email protected] for utilities, Reliability
 POWER
Transformer PANELS
Technology February 2024 11

Issue 34

MONITORING
& DIAGNOSTICS
BATTERIES AND ADVANCES
IN ENERGY STORAGE
GRID MODERNIZATION: EV CHARGING,
RESILIENCY MOBILE SUBS
...and much more!

JOIN
POWER PANEL
DISCUSSIONS
WITH INDUSTRY THOUGHT
LEADERS AND EXPERTS

moderated by Alan Ross CRL, CMRP

OPEN FOR
PARTICIPATION:
Email [email protected]

VISIT OUR CHANNELS:

Web powersystems.technology
YT youtube.com
12 FROM THE EDITOR:
TOPIC
A PERSPECTIVE
MISSING

Green Energy:
Where Do We Stand?

We all should know by now what we mean Challenges and Opportunities

by green energy as it refers to energy sources Despite the progress that has been made, there
that can be naturally replenished and are not are still some major challenges that need to be
carbon based. This includes sunlight, wind, addressed in order to fully transition to green
water, geothermal heat and more recently, white energy. One challenge is the intermittency of
hydrogen. The growing focus on transitioning to some renewable sources, such as solar and wind
green energy in order to combat climate change power. These sources cannot always produce
and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels has electricity when it is needed. That is why the
become a central component of energy policy excitement about storage is front and center
in North America and much of Europe. when it comes to decarbonizing the grid.
New technologies and/or approaches to utility
The Rise of Green Energy scale storage has become more economical
The past few decades have seen significant and if you want to find out about the feasibility
progress in green energy technology. Solar and of dynamic change, just follow the money. My
wind power costs have plummeted, making them money is on storage at present.
increasingly competitive with fossil fuels.
In addition, there have been major advancements
in energy storage, which is essential for making
green energy more reliable.
The past few decades have seen significant
At the most recent RE+ event, attended by over progress in green energy technology. Solar and
40,000 people, it was clear that storage became wind power costs have plummeted, making
a bigger part of the story. As a result of these them increasingly competitive with fossil fuels.
developments, the use of green energy is growing
rapidly. In 2022, renewable energy accounted for Another challenge is the need to upgrade
about 12% of global energy consumption, and and expand the electrical grid in order to
this is expected to rise to 30% by 2030. accommodate the increasing amount of green

Photo: Shutterstock
Transformer Technology February 2024 13

Issue 34

energy, with former rate payers now becoming Alan has decades of experience

APC Media
CRL, CMRP
Managing Editor
Technical Director
Alan M Ross
prosumers. Interoperability is a major challenge in the power systems industry
when power flows in so many different and is one of the greatest
directions, up and down the grid, which has been reliability experts out there.
designed in a flow down to the end user. In the
past, generation preceded transmission which
preceded distribution. Now distribution has
become generation through DER.

Despite the progress that has been made, there

are still some major challenges that need to be
addressed in order to fully transition to green
energy.

However, there are more opportunities for

green energy as the continued development of
technology makes green energy even cheaper
and more reliable. In addition, there is growing
public support for transitioning to clean energy,
and governments around the world are starting
to implement policies that support green
energy development.

The Future of Green Energy

The future of green energy is bright. The tech-
nology is rapidly improving, the costs are falling,
and public support is growing. While there are
still challenges to overcome, it is clear that green
energy is the future of our energy system.

Additional points for us to consider when it

comes to green energy are;

• The role of green energy in job creation.

Again, follow the money.

• The impact of green energy on air and water

pollution.

• The potential for green energy to help

developing countries. Let’s empower those
without access to power through microgrids
based on green energy.

We believe that green energy is one of the most

important issues of our time. It is essential for our
planet and our future. We encourage our industry
to stay up to date with ever-changing technology
and to support green energy generation,
transmission, and distribution. Let’s move
from hope and hype, to real
world-changing application.
14 BATTERY
ENERGY STORAGE

The Evolution
of Battery Energy Storage
by Jeff Donato

Photo: Shutterstock
Transformer Technology February 2024 15

Issue 34

Jeff Donato is the Sales Director-Safety Pro-

ducts at H2scan. Jeff Donato has over 25
years of sales and management experience
in the industrial battery industry, represent-
ing safety and compliance products in the
datacenter, utility, and telecommunications
applications. Jeff is an active member of
the IEEE Power & Energy Society and is the
current chair of working group 1578 in
the Energy Storage and Stationary Battery
Committee (ESSB). Jeff is also a member
of several other IEEE working groups includ-
ing alternative energy storage technologies
and the nuclear working group. He has pre-
sented standby power system Environmen-
tal Health & Safety training to engineering,
architect and OEM manufacturing firms
and delivered solutions training to end us-
ers and specifying engineers.

Battery Energy Storage System

(BESS), has undergone a remarkable
evolution in recent years, driven by
advancements in battery technology,
policy changes, and the increasing
need for grid flexibility with the rise
of renewable energy. Battery energy
is used in grid support, integration of
renewable energy and commercial/
industrial applications.

Advancements in battery technology

have shrunk cell sizes, boosted
capacities, and slashed costs,
making BESS a viable and attractive
option for diverse applications.
Policy landscapes around the world
are rapidly evolving, recognizing
the crucial role BESS plays in grid
resilience and decarbonization, with
supportive regulations and incentives
further fueling the BESS boom.
Perhaps the most significant driver,
16 BATTERY
ENERGY STORAGE

however, is the focus on growth Beyond the grid benefits, BESS

of renewable energy. As wind and contribute to climate change
solar power soar in popularity, their mitigation by enabling increased
inherent variability challenges grid penetration of clean renewables
stability, demanding flexible solutions and displacing polluting fossil fuel
like BESS to bridge the gaps. generation. They enhance energy
security by providing backup power
Advancements in battery and mitigating the risks of blackouts.
technology have shrunk cell sizes, For businesses, BESS translate into
boosted capacities, and slashed cost savings, operational flexibility,
costs, making BESS a viable and improved environmental
and attractive option for diverse stewardship.
applications.
Early Days in the 2000s:
In grid support, BESS alleviates peak BESS deployments were small-
demand burdens stabilizing the scale and mainly focused on niche
system. They excel at integrating applications like backup power for
renewable energy, absorbing excess critical infrastructure. Lithium-ion
solar and wind generation power batteries, the dominant technology
during periods of abundance, and based on its high energy density,
releasing it when the sun dips below were expensive, hindering widespread
the horizon or the wind slows down, adoption. Batteries primarily provided
ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted basic grid support services such as
energy supply. frequency regulation.

In the commercial and industrial Rise of Renewables in the 2010s:

realm, BESS empower businesses The growth of solar and wind energy
with self-reliance, allowing them to highlighted the need for energy
store off-peak power and utilize it storage to address their intermittency.
during peak hours, slashing energy Advancements in battery technology
costs and boosting operational led to significant cost declines,
efficiency. making lithium batteries more
commercially viable and started
Below are the application and playing a broader role in the grid,
advantages of having Battery Energy including peak shaving, energy
Storage. arbitrage, and transmission deferral.

Grid Support & Stabilization:

Objective Description

Batteries store excess energy during periods of low demand and release it during
Peak shaving peak demand times, reducing strain on the grid and minimizing the need for
expensive peak power plants and commercial buildings.

Batteries quickly respond to fluctuations in electricity supply and demand, helping

Frequency regulation
to maintain grid frequency stability and prevent blackouts.

Batteries inject or absorb reactive power to stabilize voltage levels on the grid,
Voltage regulation
particularly with the increasing integration of variable renewable energy sources.

Batteries provide backup power to critical infrastructure in case of grid outages,

Demand Power
enabling faster restoration of power services.

Integration of renewable energy:

Objective Description

Batteries store excess electricity generated by wind and solar power during periods
Smoothing variability
of high production and release it when these sources are unavailable.

Enabling distributed Batteries facilitate the connection of smaller, distributed renewable energy sources to
generation the grid by managing their intermittent output and ensuring reliable power supply.

Improving grid access Batteries help mitigate grid congestion issues and enable increased penetration of
for renewables renewable energy into the energy mix.
 Transformer Technology February 2024 17

Issue 34

BESS in the 2020s: a key role in achieving a clean and

BESS deployments are no longer sustainable energy future.
just utility-scale; residential and
commercial systems are gaining The modernization of the grid
traction. BESS are moving beyond infrastructure is creating new
traditional grid services, participating opportunities for BESS to provide
in wholesale markets, and providing valuable services. Government policies
flexibility for microgrids. New battery promoting renewable energy integration
chemistries, promise even higher and carbon emission reduction have
energy density and lower costs. incentivized BESS adoption. Growing
awareness of climate change and the
BESS will be pivotal in enabling need for clean energy is also driving
a more distributed and resilient public support for BESS technologies.
grid, facilitating the integration
of distributed energy resources. As battery technology continues
to evolve, costs will reduce, and
BESS will become increasingly
applications grow, their impact
intelligent, utilizing AI and machine will only broaden and deepen. This
learning to optimize smart grid remarkable evolution, driven by the
operations. unwavering pursuit of a cleaner and
more sustainable future, promises to
The Future of BESS: reshape the very way we generate,
BESS will be pivotal in enabling a store, and utilize energy.
more distributed and resilient grid,
facilitating the integration of distributed As battery technology continues
energy resources. BESS will become to evolve, costs will reduce, and
increasingly intelligent, utilizing AI and
applications grow, their impact
machine learning to optimize smart
will only broaden and deepen. This
grid operations. There is an increasing
focus on developing more sustainable remarkable evolution, driven by the
and ethical battery materials and unwavering pursuit of a cleaner and
recycling to minimize environmental more sustainable future, promises
impact. With continued innovation to reshape the very way we
and policy support, BESS can play generate, store, and utilize energy.

While lithium batteries are the primary choice of battery technology for
BESS, there are many other technologies that are in place and emerging:

Battery
Description Strengths & Weaknesses
Technology

Lithium-ion batteries in BESS store energy by Batteries store excess electricity

moving Li+ ions between the anode and cathode. generated by wind and solar power during
Charging pushes Li+ ions into the anode, while periods of high production and release it
Lithium
discharging pulls them back to the cathode. This when these sources are unavailable.
Batteries
movement of ions creates a potential difference
that drives electrons through the external circuit,
generating electricity.

Although not technically a battery, this Clean, sustainable, and capable of storing
technology utilizes water stored at different gigawatt-hours of electricity, ideal for
Pumped elevations to generate electricity through hydro balancing supply and demand on the grid,
Hydroelectric turbines, offering large-scale energy storage with especially during peak hours. However,
Storage high efficiency and long lifespans. it has limitations based on geography,
requires large scale civil engineering, and
had long construction times.

These store energy in two liquid electrolytes that Batteries help mitigate grid congestion
pump through a membrane, separating them issues and enable increased penetration
Flow Batteries
when charged and allowing their interaction to of renewable energy into the energy mix.
generate electricity when discharged.

Utilize atmospheric oxygen as their cathode Made from abundant sustainable

Metal-Air material, potentially achieving high energy materials, lightweight with high energy
Batteries densities due to the oxygen not needing storage density. However, there are efficiency
within the battery. concerns and has a slow discharge rate.
Photo: Shutterstock

A potential alternative to lithium-ion batteries They offer lower cost and abundance
that use sodium ions instead of lithium. of sodium resources but suffer from
Sodium Ion
lower energy density and faster cycle
degradation compared to lithium-ion.
18 BATTERY
ENERGY STORAGE
 Transformer Technology February 2024 19

Issue 34

LinkedIn article by Research and

Markets (August 2022)

Global annual BESS installations: Global

BESS deployments to exceed 400GWh
annually by 2030, says Rystad Energy,
Energy-Storage.News article (November
2023)

US BESS industry: Record growth for

US BESS industry, but '2GW impacted
by supply chain, interconnection
challenges', Energy-Storage.News
article (October 2023)

International Renewable Energy

Agency (IRENA) report "Unlocking the
Potential of Battery Energy Storage for
Renewables Integration" (2023)

The Global Energy Storage Alliance

(GESA) report "The State of Energy
Storage 2023" World Energy Council's
report "The Role of Energy Storage in
Grid Modernization" (2022)

BloombergNEF's "2023 Battery Price

Forecast" and BNEF's "Energy Storage
Trends Report" (2023)

The International Energy Agency (IEA)

report "Global EV Outlook 2023"

National Renewable Energy Laboratory

(NREL), "Cost and Performance
Analysis of Battery Energy Storage
Systems" (2023)

International Renewable Energy Agency

(IRENA), "Unlocking the Potential of
Battery Energy Storage for Renewables
Integration" (2023)

Sources Electric Power Research Institute

LinkedIn article "2031 Battery Energy (EPRI), "Grid Integration Challenges for
Storage Systems (BESS) Market Large-Scale Battery Energy Storage
Projections: Identifying Growth Systems" (2022)
Opportunities and Emerging Trends"
The Cost of Energy Storage:
Energy-Storage.News article "Global Understanding the Costs and Drivers of
BESS deployments to exceed 400GWh BESS Deployment" (2023)
annually by 2030, says Rystad Energy"
International Energy Agency (IEA),
Energy-Storage.News article "Record "Global EV Outlook 2023"
growth for US BESS industry, but
'2GW impacted by supply chain, World Energy Council, "The Role of
interconnection challenges' Energy Storage in Grid Modernization"
(2022)
Photo: Shutterstock

Global BESS market: 2031 Battery

Energy Storage Systems (BESS) The Energy Storage Association, "2023
Market Projections: Identifying Growth BESS Deployment Guide"
Opportunities and Emerging Trends,
20 COMPANY
SPOTLIGHT

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT
DRAGONFLY ENERGY

Energizing
the Planet
with Reliable,
Clean Power Photo: Shutterstock
Transformer Technology February 2024 21

Issue 34

DRAGONFLY ENERGY is a leader in flammable solid state battery cell

the green energy storage industry. technology.
Developing some of the most popular
Lithium-ion Battery products in the What is Dragonfly's most impactful
RV and Marine industries today, product?
through the Battle Born Batteries
brand, while advancing the future of Our consumer brand of batteries,
battery technology through unique Battle Born Batteries. Traditionally,
patented manufacturing processes the RV industry relied on lead acid
forged by a robust R&D department. batteries, a product that, while widely
Enabling high quality, effective deployed, remains dangerous to
domestic cell production and building the customer and incredibly toxic to
towards the widespread deployment the environment. It was time for a
of proprietary non-flammable solid change.
state battery cells built for safe, long
term energy storage. So, we created this popular line of
deep cycle LiFePO4 batteries, coming
How is Dragonfly Energy helping to the market with a quality, reliable
create a greener planet? product that transformed the camping
experience for RVers. Battle Born
Dragonfly Energy Corp., head- Batteries provide significant weight
quartered in Reno, Nevada, is a savings, up to three times the power,
leading manufacturer of deep cycle five times faster charging, and last
lithium-ion batteries, which are over ten times longer. Our products
sold direct-to-consumers under took the industry by storm and
the Battle Born Batteries brand and propelled a widespread conversion
to original equipment manufacturers, to renewable energy throughout the
such as Keystone RV and Airstream. RV industry, and now expanding into
Dragonfly Energy’s battery products Marine, Residential, Trucking, and
are designed and assembled in the Industrial applications, as well. Battle
USA, and the company’s research Born Batteries are also integrated
and development initiatives are at the OEM level through popular
revolutionizing the energy storage brands such as Airstream, Tiffin, and
industry through innovating Keystone RV.
technologies and manufacturing
processes. Today, Dragonfly Energy’s Now, with hundreds of thousands
non-toxic deep cycle LiFePO4 of batteries that have been battle-
batteries are displacing lead-acid tested in the field through consumer
batteries across a wide range of and OEM customers, we continue to
end-markets, including RVs, marine innovate. New Dragonfly IntelLigence Contact information:
vessels, residential off grid & backup technology brings next-level General inquiries:
storage, and industrial applications. communication and monitoring to 775-622-3448
Dragonfly Energy is also focused power systems. This technology is [email protected]
on delivering an energy storage designed to give users the utmost
Marketing:
solution to enable a more sustainable confidence in their power system
[email protected]
and reliable smart grid through the by providing unparalleled access to
future deployment of the company’s monitoring, notification, performance Investor relations:
proprietary and patented non and safety tools [email protected]
22 RENEWABLES
AND BATTERY
STORAGE

Can Renewables
& Battery Storage be
as Reliable as Oil
& Gas Generation?
by Ben Lanz
and Chip Angus Ben Lanz is Director of Strategy & Develop-
ment at IMCORP. With over 30 years in the
power and energy industry, Ben Lanz is cur-
rently responsible for IMCORP’s technical out-
reach and education efforts and is the imme-
diate past Chairman of the Board of the Pow-
er Delivery Intelligence Initiative (PDI2.org),
a nonprofit dedicated to disseminating grid
investment best practices. He is a senior
member of IEEE PES and ICC, and a voting
member of DEIS, IAS, ACP and CIGRE. He has
chaired IEEE technical committees associat-
ed with power system reliability, protection,
and testing, has published over 100 papers,
articles and technical conference contribu-
tions on the subjects of power system re-
liability, asset management, design, work
practices, longevity and diagnostics, and is a
regular guest speaker at numerous confer-
ences and seminars.

Yes! We can’t control the energy

source of wind and solar and
connected battery storage systems,
⨵
but we can ensure plant reliability Unlike oil and gas-powered
by implementing best practices to generation facilities, power cables
maximize uptime when generation is and transformers at utility scale Chip Angus is Electric Reliability National Ac-
available. Unlike oil and gas-powered renewable sites play a much bigger count Manager at SDMyers, LLC in Tallmadge,
generation facilities, power cables and role connecting the distributed Ohio, where he specializes in helping indus-
transformers at utility scale renewable generation to the grid. trial companies develop long-term transfor-
sites play a much bigger role mer reliability solutions. Chip works primarily
connecting the distributed generation When wind and solar energy are with manufacturing, steel, wind, solar, pulp
to the grid. Unplanned collector available, we need to ensure the and paper, and oil & gas customers by align-
system outages can easily cost medium voltage (MV) collector ing their corporate reliability expectations
over one hundred thousand dollars systems are reliable so revenues, with the realities at the plant operations level.
per event including the impacts of operation and maintenance (O&M) Chip presents at conferences across the U.S.
repair cost, revenue loss and power budgets, and power purchase as a resource in the field of industrial elec-
purchase agreement penalties. In fact, agreements are not negatively tric power reliability. He has been published
simply based on typical cable system impacted. Scarcity in material supply in a variety of leading trade publications in
failures of cable systems not properly chains and experienced resources the electric power reliability space. Before
commissioned, the average utility are introducing additional risks. specializing in transformer management and
Photo: IMCORP

scale site will experience more than For example, the frequency of cable electric power reliability, Chip was the presi-
15 failures yielding over $1.5 million in manufacturing defects, while only dent of Ryco Metals, a structural and plate
losses over a 25-year plant life. 5% of total defects found, have fabrication firm and service center.
Transformer Technology February 2024 23

Issue 34

doubled from what the industry provides insight into industry trends technology comparable to cable and
experienced over a decade ago. and specific case studies illustrating accessory manufacturer factory QC
Many veterans from the more mature the benefit of implementing the latest tests (Table 1) shows a remarkable
utility-scale wind industry are making in recommended proactive quality learning curve story. Wind systems
efforts to apply lessons learned to control (QC) commissioning, and meeting the cable and accessory
solar and battery applications. maintenance practices. manufacturers’ standards maintained
a consistent high level of performance

⨵ Renewable Industry Learning

Curve
whereas solar systems took 5 years
to catch up. This strong correlation is
also supported by onsite experience.
In fact, simply based on typical cable According to American Clean Power We conclude that it took about 5
system failures of cable systems not (ACP), utility scale wind development years for many solar developers to
properly commissioned, the average ramped up in North America in adopt training, construction, and
utility scale site will experience more the mid 2000s. The industry spent commissioning best practices. In the
than 15 failures yielding over $1.5 years developing solutions to many last couple years, utility scale energy
million in losses over a 25-year plant unforeseen reliability challenges storage projects have ramped up,
life. including challenges with the collector much like solar did in 2013, which
systems. According to ACP, utility brings us to the point. Our industry
New industry recommended practices scale solar didn’t reach the scale of has a great opportunity to shortcut the
and guidance are available, but the wind until 2013. Data collected from learning curve with yet another round
knowledge is not evenly distributed. about 65% of wind and solar collector of new developers and contractors by
In addition to identifying how cable systems built between 2014 and 2019 implementing best practices including
and transformers fail, this article and commissioned using line scanning the ones in this article.
24 RENEWABLES
AND BATTERY
STORAGE

⨵ 100%

90%
Our industry has a great opportunity
to shortcut the learning curve with 80%
yet another round of new developers
and contractors by implementing 70%

best practices including the ones in

this article. 60%

Implementing Best Practices 50%

to Prevent Transformer Failures 40%

The fleet of transformers at utility- 30%

scale renewable sites plays a
decisive role in connecting the 20%
distributed generation to the grid.
Going beyond routine maintenance 10%

activities with best practices and

reliability strategies for transformers 0%
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
is crucial to ensure the efficient
Solar Wind Linear (Solar) Linear (Wind)
and uninterrupted conversion and
transmission of generation from Figure 1
wind and solar sources. Although First pass performance of wind and solar MV
transformers are designed to last cable systems portraying % of systems meeting
for decades, a number of drivers can manufacturers’ standards as shown in Table 1
push them to premature failures,
such as extreme heating, mechanical Commissioning Tests for thermography of the transformer
stress, contamination, extreme Transformers components, such as external
voltage stress, and corrosion of bushings, connections, cooling fins,
external components. Main power, pad mount, and and the surfaces, is recommended
grounding transformers are typically as part of an ongoing electrical
The insulating paper is the life of the tested over multiple stages during maintenance plan (EMP) that adheres
transformer. The transformer paper is the commissioning process. Before to NFPA 70B standards.
immersed in a dielectric liquid, which a transformer leaves the factory,
enhances the strength of the paper the buyer should ensure it has Transformer Case Study
and serves as an inhibitor to heat, been properly tested. Ideally, key
oxidation, and moisture, all of which tests are repeated in the field after A site in the United States experienced
contribute to a decline in performance installation and during the initial a failure of their main power
and can lead to failure. If the paper is energization process to ensure transformer. The owner was running a
compromised, PD occurs and creates against transportation and installation costly backup generator while awaiting
a destructive feedback loop that can damage. IEEE guides, ACP RP 601, delivery of a main power transformer.
eventually lead to failure. Additionally, and NETA ATS 2021 all recommend In the purchase agreement, the owner
a transformer leaking from its main a battery of tests, including electrical, agreed to manufacturer warranty
valve or bushings can expose the chemical, and infrared thermography. terms which outlined required
paper, causing it to rapidly dry and Electrical tests should include a turns acceptance testing, including a
initiate PD. ratio test, a winding resistance test, baseline electrical power factor test
and an insulation resistance test. as well as weekly dissolved gas
While there are extreme cases when For the main power transformer, a analysis for a period of three weeks
a failure occurs without warning, sweep frequency response analysis is following energization. Due to a limited
proper commissioning, proactive recommended. Chemical tests should budget and the steep and unexpected
maintenance, and regular monitoring comprise measurements such as the expense of rewiring a portion of the
of your transformers are key to fleet list in SDMyers’ “CriticalPac,” which site for compatibility with the new
reliability, longevity, and avoiding includes interfacial tension, dielectric transformer, management declined
premature failure. Implementing best breakdown voltage, neutralization to provide the funds necessary to
practices and reliability strategies number, relative density, color, visual, complete the commissioning tests
helps utility-scale renewable Karl Fischer moisture, dissolved gas on the new transformer. After nearly
sites navigate the challenges of analysis, liquid power factor, oxidation a year, the owner decided to conduct
maintaining a robust transformer inhibitor content, dissolved metals, and chemical testing to get a baseline
fleet in an ever-evolving energy furanic compounds. After energization on the health of the transformer
landscape. and the system is under load, infrared and indicated that a power factor
Transformer Technology February 2024 25

Issue 34

test could also be conducted during

an upcoming planned outage. The
chemical test indicated active arcing.
To provide a comparative analysis,
a chemical test was conducted 48
hours later, revealing concentrations of
some key indicators had doubled. The
owner was advised to immediately
take the transformer offline but
instead continued utilization. Within
four days, the transformer exploded,
caused damage to surrounding assets,
and was a total loss. With no true
baseline data or ability to perform
a root cause analysis, the ultimate
cause of the transformer failure
remains undetermined. Additionally,
the manufacturer was unable to honor
the warranty because the acceptance
testing outlined in the purchase
agreement was never performed.
Failure to properly commission
and monitor the health of the new
transformer turned into more than a
million-dollar mistake. Figure 2

Implementing Best Practices to

Prevent Cable System Failures

The primary cause of modern cable discharge testing with 5pC sensitivity of the detection and identification
system failure is human induced as a diagnostic method for both of issues associated with cable
damage exacerbated by extreme commissioning and aged cables. system accessories (improper cable
voltage conditions. Modern, medium The IEEE 1185 “Recommended preparation, interface contamination,
and high voltage cable systems Practice for Cable Installation in improper alignment of stress control
fail due to a voltage driven erosion Generation Stations and Industrial layers, improper shrinking, etc.)”
process associated with a ‘micro Facilities” states “PD testing is and “when testing a complete cable
arcing’ phenomenon called partial recommended for post-installation system, each component should meet
discharge (PD). PD can arise from testing of medium voltage power cable the partial discharge requirements”
an extreme focus of electric stress systems. Experience has shown this and provides the standards in Table 1
and a lack of the appropriate solid test to be the most effective means as a reference.
insulation. 93% of PD activity is not
active at operating voltage but can
Table 1
be triggered by voltage transients
Manufacturing Standards PD Test Specification
which are common at renewable
sites. Transients should be limited by Parameters
surge arresters but unless properly Cable Component Standard
(50/60 Hz only)
tested and repaired, industry data
shows about 40% of newly installed
IEEE 48 Terminations
cable systems will have at least
one substandard PD site active No PD >5 pC up to 1.5 U0
below protection levels, so effective IEEE 404 Joints
commissioning to remove these risks
is critical. IEEE 386 Separable Connectors No PD >5 pC up to 1.3 U0

Commissioning Tests for

ICEA S-97-682/ 94-649 Cable 5 kV-46 kV No PD >5 pC up to 4 U0*
Cable Systems

In their 2023, “Wind and Solar ICEA S-108-720 Cable 69 kV-500 kV No PD >5 pC up to 2 U0
Underground AC Collection System
Cable Testing," ACP recommends * 4U0 is an estimate, actually 200V/mil or 7.9 kV/mm. Field tests are limited to the level of arrester protection,
using offline 50/60 Hz partial typically 2 to 2.5 U0
26 RENEWABLES
AND BATTERY
STORAGE

Cable System Case Study

In this case study involving over a

dozen renewable energy projects with
identical construction specifications
and executed by the same pool
of contractors, the efficacy of two
distinct test approaches—IMCORP's
AI-based line scanning technology
and a conventional VLF (Very Low
Frequency) commissioning test—was
evaluated. The study encompassed
a significant cumulative length
of 1,616 miles over a four-year
observation period. The circuits
subjected to IMCORP's advanced
technology demonstrated an
outstanding performance, revealing an
impressively low failure rate of
0.03 failures per 100 miles per year.
In stark contrast, a subset of cables
spanning 105 miles, undergoing VLF
commissioning tests, exhibited a
substantially higher failure rate of 2.53
failures per 100 miles per year over a
three-year observation period.

Notably, the IMCORP-tested circuits

demonstrated an 81-fold improvement
in performance compared to their
VLF-tested counterparts. The study
also unveiled a disconcerting parallel
between the failure rates of VLF-tested
circuits and new cable systems not
subjected to testing, both hovering
around 3 failures per 100 miles per
year. This implies that although the
VLF test has the potential to identify
weaknesses, it may also introduce
new issues.

Consequently, it might be more

beneficial for sites to forego
Photo: IMCORP

Figure 3
Electrical tree damage resulting from a passing
VLF commissioning test.
Transformer Technology February 2024 27

Issue 34

commissioning tests altogether

instead of a VLF test. These results
emphasize the crucial role of
IMCORP's AI-based line scanning
technology and the importance of
adhering to the cable and accessory
manufacturer's standards (specifically,
the "offline 50/60Hz PD test with
5pC sensitivity" outlined in Table 1).
This approach ensures the reliability
and performance of renewable
energy projects, advocating for the
widespread adoption of this superior
alternative over traditional testing
methods.

⨵
This implies that although the VLF
test has the potential to identify
weaknesses, it may also introduce
new issues. Consequently, it might
be more beneficial for sites to forego
commissioning tests altogether
instead of a VLF test.

Conclusion

Although renewable energy and

battery storage sites have more
complex collector systems, they have
the potential to rival conventional
oil and gas plant performance. Both
wind and solar technologies have
undergone painful learning curves in
terms of commissioning practices.
With the adoption of well-established
commissioning and maintenance
best practices, the renewable energy
sector and battery storage facilities are
positioned to perform reliably for the
foreseeable future.

2.99
3.00

2.53
2.50

2.00

1.50

1.00

0.50

0.03
0.00
50/60Hz PD Test VLF Test No Commissioning

Figure 4
Post-commissioning failure rates per 100 miles
per year.
28 PERSPECTIVES

Barriers to Green Technology

Adoption: Implications for Power Grid
Infrastructure Growth

For decades, the utilities sector was perceived as The rapid adoption of green technologies
a slow-moving and stable industry. However, the can be attributed in large part to significant
advent of green technologies, with electrification cost reductions over the last decade. The cost
at its core for decarbonization, has propelled the of electricity from onshore wind and solar
power grid and the utilities that manage it to the photovoltaic (PV) sources has become increasingly
forefront of our climate goals. competitive, outpacing that of new and even
existing fossil fuel plants in many countries.
Recent progress in renewable adoption has been Similarly, the affordability of electric vehicles
promising. 2023 witnessed a significant number has surged, driven by decreasing battery costs
of wind and solar projects being commissioned and the economies of scale associated with
around the world with an impressive 310GW mass production.
capacity added globally throughout the year,
taking us to a cumulative installed capacity of 1.8
TW. [1] In addition to renewables, electrification
of transport and heating sectors, continued their
growth, with 5.7 million new EV chargers [2] It is crucial to assess whether the anticipated
installed worldwide and an 11% growth in heat high growth in grid infrastructure and
pump sales [3] in 2023. equipment demand, driven by the adoption of
clean technologies like renewables EV chargers,
Projections by PTR Inc. indicate this growth will materialize as initially predicted.
trajectory will persist, with an estimated 670 GW
of additional renewable capacity (wind and solar) Despite these positive trends, the green technology
expected to come online in the US and Europe adoption faces challenges that may impede
by 2030. [1] The electric vehicle (EV) market is its growth. Economic uncertainties, pressure
also poised for sustained growth, projected at a on public budgets, the financial health of the
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20% energy sector and financing challenges due to
until the decade's end [2]. a high cost of capital today, add complexity to

policy uncertainties for the adoption of clean

technologies. Infrastructure hurdles, such as energy
storage limitations, sluggish grid updates, delayed
grid connections, and protracted permitting
processes, further contribute to the deceleration of
renewable and EV charging projects.

As the world grapples with geopolitical issues

affecting public sentiment toward green
Photo: Shutterstock, PTR Inc.

technologies, a potential slowdown in the growth

of renewables and EV charging infrastructure is
becoming a reality. This raises critical questions
for stakeholders in the electrical infrastructure
space. From a planning perspective, it is crucial to
Transformer Technology February 2024 29

Issue 34

assess whether the anticipated high growth in grid Author:

infrastructure and equipment demand, driven by Hassan Zaheer
the adoption of clean technologies like renewables Chief Operating Officer
EV chargers, will materialize as initially predicted. at PTR Inc.

Economic uncertainties, pressure on public

budgets, the financial health of the energy
sector and financing challenges due to a
high cost of capital today, add complexity to
policy uncertainties for the adoption of clean
technologies.

The answer comes with a caveat – the electrical

infrastructure market is growing, but not as
rapidly as initially envisaged. Predictions of a 13%
annual growth in renewable capacity additions in
the US and Europe until 2030 may be tempered,
potentially dropping to as low as 9% if bottlenecks
persist. [1] Similarly, a potential decrease of up
to 15% in overall EV charger sales in the US and
Europe compared to previous expectations is on
the horizon. [2]

This slower growth trajectory in the electrical

infrastructure market, which has thrived on the
integration of green technologies into the grid,
could result in a demand growth as low as 4% in
Europe and 8% in the US. [1] Realistically, if this
trend persists, achieving net-zero targets will
become increasingly challenging. The industry
must keep these challenges and the potential
impact due to them in mind, so we can focus on
fostering innovation to address these barriers and
ensure a sustainable and expedited transition to a
greener future. Hassan Zaheer is the Chief Operating Officer at PTR Inc.
based in Abu Dhabi, UAE. With more than a decade of
experience in the energy transition space, Hassan works
for various Fortune-500 blue-chip clients on global
This slower growth trajectory in the electrical market studies in the electrical infrastructure sector.
infrastructure market, which has thrived on the In his current role at PTR, he works with clients to
integration of green technologies into the grid, sustainably grow their businesses, both through custom
could result in a demand as low as 4% in Europe consulting work and tailored research reports by PTR,
and 8% in the US. [1]
helping their executive management and boards make
data driven decisions. Hassan is also a Member of
Bibliography:
Advisory Board for CWIEME Berlin and an advisor to
[1] PTR Inc., "Power Grid Market Intelligence," PTR Inc.,
the educational non-profit Better Humans Academy.
Sunnyvale, California, 2023.
Hassan has a tech background with a Masters in Power
[2] PTR Inc. , "EV Charging Infrastructure Market Research," PTR
Engineering from the Technical University of Munich
Inc. , Sunnyvale, California, 2024.
(TUM) and a BS in Electrical Engineering from the
[3] IEA, "Global heat pump sales continue double-digit growth,"
Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS).
31 March 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.iea.org/
commentaries/global-heat-pump-sales-continue-double- Additionally, he is also an Alumni of Center for Digital
digit-growth. [Accessed 19 January 2024]. Technology & Management (CDTM).
30 POWER TRANSFORMER
MANAGEMENT

ETOS ® THE FUTURE OF

POWER TRANSFORMER
MANAGEMENT

Photo: Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen

ETOS® REPRESENTS A SYSTEMIC INNOVATION, SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATING

EXISTING ACTUATORS, MODERN SENSORS, COMMUNICATION DEVICES,
AND ALGORITHMS INTO A UNIFIED SYSTEM THAT ENCOMPASSES BOTH EDGE
AND CLOUD COMPONENTS.
Transformer Technology February 2024 31

Issue 34

In the dynamic world of energy distribution, power transformers stand as the

workhorses of the grid, silently converting electricity from one voltage level to
another. While they play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of power, these
transformers face a myriad of challenges, including aging infrastructure, increasing
demand, and the loss of skilled personnel. To address these challenges and
maintain the reliability of power grids, energy network operators are increasingly
turning to automation and artificial intelligence (AI) as powerful tools for optimizing
transformer performance and reliability, as well as extending their lifespans.

TO ADDRESS THESE CHALLENGES AND MAINTAIN THE RELIABILITY OF POWER

GRIDS, ENERGY NETWORK OPERATORS ARE INCREASINGLY TURNING TO
AUTOMATION AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) AS POWERFUL TOOLS FOR
OPTIMIZING TRANSFORMER PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY, AS WELL AS
EXTENDING THEIR LIFESPANS.

Figure 1: System overview

ETOS®: A Systemic Innovation for Power Transformer Management

At the forefront of this AI revolution is ETOS®, a pioneering solution developed
by Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen (MR) that redefines the way power transformers
are monitored, operated, and maintained. ETOS® represents a systemic innovation,
seamlessly integrating existing actuators, modern sensors, communication
devices, and algorithms into a unified system that encompasses both edge and
cloud components. This intelligent infrastructure creates self-learning digital
twins of network nodes, providing operators with unprecedented insights into
the condition and performance of their transformers.

Figure 1 depicts a simplified representation of a power transformer's automation

architecture, highlighting the three distinct levels: process, field, and control.
32 POWER TRANSFORMER
MANAGEMENT

BY SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATING SENSORS, COMMUNICATION DEVICES, AND

ADVANCED ALGORITHMS, ETOS® CREATES A DIGITAL TWIN OF THE TRANSFORMER.
THIS DIGITAL TWIN SERVES AS A COMPREHENSIVE VIRTUAL REPRESENTATION OF
THE TRANSFORMER'S CONDITION AND PERFORMANCE, PROVIDING OPERATORS
WITH UNPRECEDENTED INSIGHTS INTO ITS HEALTH AND OPERATION.

Process Level:
At the heart of the power transformer lies the process level, encompassing the
physical components that enable the conversion of electricity from one voltage
level to another. On this level there are sensors (conventional and intelligent), pro-
tection accessories and actors (OLTC and cooling system). These are in physical
contact with the transformer.

Field Level:
Acting as the bridge between the physical process and the control systems,
the field level incorporates sensor information that monitor the transformer's
condition and actuators that control its operation. ETOS® plays a vital role at this
level, gathering data from various sensors and applying algorithms to analyze
and interpret it as well as ensuring an efficient control of the temperature and the
voltage. To suit different utility requirements, it supports the modular integration
of functions in the areas of control, regulation, monitoring, and the tap-changer
drive. By seamlessly integrating sensors, communication devices, and advanced
algorithms, ETOS® creates a digital twin of the transformer. This digital twin
serves as a comprehensive virtual representation of the transformer's condition
and performance, providing operators with unprecedented insights into its
health and operation. This holistic approach empowers operators to make
informed decisions about maintenance schedules, optimization strategies, and
overall asset management.

Control Level:
Photo: Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen

The control level forms the outermost layer of the power transformer's
automation architecture, encompassing the software and hardware systems
that manage the transformer's operation. It receives data from the field level,
analyzes it, and sends commands to the actuators to ensure the transformer
operates optimally. ETOS® acts as a bridge between the field level and control
level, providing real-time insights and actionable recommendations to the
control system (SCADA) and asset performance management systems.
Transformer Technology December 2023 33

Issue 34

Linking the dots with ETOS® Asset Intelligence

New technologies can help compensate for the loss of personnel knowledge
and the increased demands on operating equipment.

Monitoring and sensor systems on power transformers, such as DGA systems,

are often installed on power transformers for early fault detection. These can
detect operating states and send corresponding messages when limit values
are exceeded. However, just adding more sensors to a transformer has limited
benefit. If the information sources aren’t consolidated, the frequency of false
alarms increases with the number of sensors, and failure diagnosis requires
human intervention.

For example, if temperature, partial discharge and DGA sensors are all capable
of detecting winding faults, their statements are not compared with each other.
Thus, contradictory statements can occur, and a simple diagnosis is not possible.
With ETOS® Asset Intelligence, all sensors present on the power transformer are
integrated and considered together. A probability-based network checks which error
patterns best match the warning messages that have occurred as well as those
which have not occurred. In addition, the occurrence rates of typical transformer
faults, as well as the false positive rates of sensors are taken into account.

The result is a probability estimate for all known transformer problems, with the
most likely problems being displayed to the customer, along with a list of reasons
for the findings. This allows the specialist to interpret the diagnostic results in a
simplified and efficient way.

This approach mimics the way a human doctor diagnoses an illness by con-
sidering various symptoms and medical tests, ensuring that operators receive
accurate and actionable insights.
34 POWER TRANSFORMER
MANAGEMENT

ETOS® innovative AI function merges individual data into actionable insights

Human health Transformer health

Interpretation of
Pulse Blood pressure Bushing OLTC your transformer‘s
condition, com-
Weight Temperature
bined with action
Blood values
! recommendations
Cooling
Temperature
Respiratory rate The AI function is
Oil
DGA
more powerful the
more parameters
Holistic assessment by physician Holistic assessment by Asset Intelligence function are monitored.

Single outliers say little. Only the integrated evaluation over time allows the reliable detection of potentially critical conditions.

Asset Intelligence for power transformers provides a guide to minimize risks and take corrective action quickly.
Tobias Gruber | Product Manager ETOS®

ETOS® Asset Intelligence in Action

The following example serves as an illustration: The Buchholz relay has
tripped, and the hydrogen level is greatly increased. Otherwise, there are no
further limit violations. The corresponding diagnosis by ETOS® Asset Intelligence
is shown below.

Figure 2: Example ETOS® Asset Intelligence

By using ETOS® Asset Intelligence, the operator gets not only data but qualified
support which provides competent recommendations for actions.

Beyond Fault Diagnosis: A Holistic Approach to Asset Management

ETOS® Asset Intelligence goes beyond simply identifying faults; it provides
a comprehensive assessment of the transformer's overall health. The system
analyzes historical data and sensor readings to predict potential future faults,
enabling proactive maintenance planning and preventing costly failures. This
predictive capability allows operators to optimize maintenance schedules,
extend transformer lifespans, and minimize downtime.

Compensating for Skilled Personnel Loss and Maximizing Efficiency

As the energy industry grapples with the retirement of experienced personnel,
ETOS® Asset Intelligence steps in to bridge the skill gap. By automating fault
diagnosis and providing actionable insights, the system empowers operators to
make informed decisions independently, freeing up skilled personnel to focus on
more complex and critical tasks. This automation not only enhances efficiency
but also reduces the risk of human error.
 Transformer Technology February 2024 35

Issue 34

Transformer health models

Fault
base rates

Bayes net

Sensor false
positive rates

Sensors
(e.g. DGA) ETOS® Asset Intelligence User interface

Figure 3: Function principle of ETOS® Asset Intelligence

ETOS®: A Catalyst for

Sustainable Grid Operations
By harnessing the power of AI,
ETOS® is revolutionizing the way
power transformers are managed,
leading to significant improvements
in efficiency, reliability, and asset
utilization. By extending transform-
er lifespans, reducing maintenance
costs, and ensuring the smooth op-
eration of power grids, ETOS® plays Tobias Gruber is a transformer automation
a crucial role in sustainable energy expert who holds a Master of Science degree
distribution. As AI continues to ad- in Electrical Engineering. He has spent over
vance, ETOS® is poised to become a decade at Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen
an indispensable tool for maintain- GmbH (MR). As the Automation Portfolio MR
ing the reliability and resilience of Specialist, Tobias specializes in regulating and
power grids worldwide. monitoring power transformers, leveraging
his expertise to optimize performance, effi-
ciency, and reliability.
[email protected]
Photo: Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen

ETOS® ASSET INTELLIGENCE GOES BEYOND SIMPLY IDENTIFYING FAULTS;

IT PROVIDES A COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT OF THE TRANSFORMER'S OVERALL
HEALTH. THE SYSTEM ANALYZES HISTORICAL DATA AND SENSOR READINGS
TO PREDICT POTENTIAL FUTURE FAULTS, ENABLING PROACTIVE MAINTENANCE
PLANNING AND PREVENTING COSTLY FAILURES.
Kevin Schneider
Denis Phares
36

PNNL’s Office of Electricity Program Manager,

Pacific Northwest National Loboratory CEO, Dragonfly Energy

Green Energy:
POWER PANEL DISCUSSIONS

An Evolution, not a Revolution

GREEN ENERGY
 Issue 34
Transformer Technology

POWER PANEL SPONSOR:

February 2024
37

Alan M Ross Bud Collins

Managing Editor, APC Media CEO, American Energy Storage Innovation
38 GREEN ENERGY

Alan Ross: Hi, I'm Alan Ross, I'm the managing or an inflection point that, I would say, was
editor of Power Systems Technology and largely driven by the onset of the electrification
Transformer Technology. I'd like to thank my of transportation.
guests. Denis Phares from Dragonfly Energy, Bud
Collins from AESI, and Kevin Schneider from There has been a focus on designing batteries
PNNL for joining me today for this Power Panel for propulsion, for vehicles, as they become
discussion. increasingly popular. But a by-product of that is
we're transitioning a lot of that power from the
ARE WE AT A TIPPING POINT? internal combustion engine to the grid.

At the RE+ Conference this past September, it This creates more stress on the grid, so there are
felt very much like a “tipping point”, the point two things that happened with this transition in
at which an idea becomes so powerful that the transportation. First, the development of better
speed of change becomes virtually unstoppable. batteries. And second is the transition of a lot of
It is when the momentum and the weight of this power onto the grid, so the combination of
change pushes through previous barriers. I that creates the question, how do we stabilize
believe we saw that at RE+ and our guests can the grid? How do we do so in a way that we're not
address this tipping point since they are all producing more gas or coal plants, but how can
experts in the field. we incorporate more renewable energy?
Photo: Shutterstock

Denis, your thoughts please? And, of course, the answer to that is you need a
buffer, and that buffer is storage, and that storage
Denis Phares: Yes, I agree with you, Alan. is typically lithium batteries, because vehicle
I think that we are very much at a tipping point, batteries have demonstrated that we can bring
Transformer Technology February 2024 39

Issue 34

Now we're looking at

batteries for how to
lower the levelized cost
rather than increase
the yield, or decrease
the charging time or
increase the range.
Denis Phares

down the cost. We can have more cost-effective Because the levelized cost is basically the
solutions than we've ever had in the past when it manufacturing cost amortized over the life of the
comes to lithium battery storage. battery.

In my view, now that we've hit this tipping point,

we're looking at batteries differently than we have
before, when it was strictly for propulsion. Now
AR Excellent insight, Denis.
Bud, same question.

we're looking at batteries for how to lower the Bud Collins: First, I very much agree with
levelized cost rather than increase the yield, or what Denis said, about revolution, pushing the
decrease the charging time or increase the range. requirements for change, and how we generate
How do you lower the levelized cost of the storage electricity and how we distribute it. But I also
such that when you combine it with whatever think that there's some other factors at play
renewable source you want to use so that you when you look at the cost of storage as if it's a
have a stable renewable source of electricity that part of the grid.
it is cost competitive or even cheaper?
You know, back in the early, the late 2000’s, we
And ultimately, the big change happens when saw many utilities that were forward-thinking
it makes financial sense. So that's where we are allowing storage to play a role in frequency
right now: how do we make this cost-effective regulation, and, at that time, we were talking
to deploy on a wide scale? This is related to the about a $1,000 a kilowatt hour for a system.
availability of the natural resources, particularly
lithium. How do we make manufacturing more Today, we're talking about $165 a kilowatt
cost effective? And how do we improve the hour for a system, so prices have come down
chemistry in order to have long cycle life? tremendously.
40 GREEN ENERGY

As costs have come down, you can look at other But I don't think that anybody has really figured
opportunities. We passed the time of being able out how much storage really will be needed,
to replace a gas peaker plant cost effectively with because I think the proliferation of electric
storage years ago. vehicles is just starting.

As we continue to develop new chemistries, we Also, the change from fossil fuel, heating your
can make better systems that last longer to make homes, to pure electric, and those things are going
it more reliable for deploying storage in a variety to put a tremendous strain on the distribution
of other use cases; it becomes a viable business networks, the transmission networks. Everything
offering. is going to change in the next 10, 15, 20 years.

In the last three years we went from a very

nascent industry into it being a real game now. It's
a real business with a lot of new entrants. As you
AR Excellent Bud, thank you.
Kevin, share with us what PNNL, and
you specifically, are doing within this space.
said at the show last year in 2023, we saw 2500
exhibitors. Kevin Schneider: I would say that I think the key
is how we take this from an academic exercise
There are a lot of people getting into storage, and transition it into something that will work.
whether it be manufacturers, developers, IPPs, Not just in the laboratory, but at scale, because
even some of the traditional fuel companies. The this goes back to your earlier comment of grid
oil companies are getting into storage. So, we're scale. People don't always understand the actual
excited about the industry. We're excited about scale that we're dealing with when you talk about
the growth. a full inter-connected power system.

Prices have come

down tremendously...
We passed the time of
being able to replace a
gas peaker plant cost
effectively with storage
years ago.
Bud Collins
 Transformer Technology February 2024 41

Issue 34

When you look at this inflection point, in my If you have the technology, the regulatory and
mind, it's really due to three things that have policy environment, then you can build the
been hit on a bit here. business case.

The first is that the technology is advancing. Then you have the tipping point because multiple
There's more dedicated research going on where stakeholders can take this new technology with
we are riding on the coattails of mobile phones, ways to make money with it, solve problems,
as lithium-ion batteries were being developed and that's what really differentiates it from a
there. DOE funded field demonstration to a mature
technology that spins off companies that
A number of other areas such as electric vehicles stand on their own and have growing quarterly
where the technology, on its own, is advancing. earnings.

The other one is the regulatory and policy WHAT ARE POSSIBLE DANGERS WE COULD
environment. It's slowly changing because we've FACE DURING THE GREEN TRANSITION?
always needed energy storage. The technology
is starting to show that we can have more things
we could do, but until the regulatory and policy
catches up and says, You can't do it, that really
AR Let's move on.
When you're looking at the industry as
a whole, you can see at how far we've come.
doesn't manifest itself.
In the TV show Lost in Space there was a robot,
And then finally, the third one that brings it all and every time there was any danger the robot’s
together, is the business case. arms would flap, and it would say: Danger, Will

I don't understand why

the rest of the industry
hasn't done what they
should do to solve the
problem [of battery
safety].
Bud Collins
Photo: Shutterstock
42 GREEN ENERGY

Robinson, danger! And then you'd have to wait but it's not very funny that the people that owned
until the next episode to find out what that it lost the money. But it wasn't the technology.
danger was about. Well, let me flap my arms at It was absolutely application of the technology
you all and say, danger, gentleman, danger! and how it was operated. Lead acid batteries are
perfectly fine. You just have to treat them nice.
What are the dangers that we face going forward?
Some of the things that are the unintended
consequences of our actions or just, hey, we did
not see it coming?
AR All right, it was a mess. I worked on
behalf of an insurance company which
insured that facility. The company that made it
went out of business, I believe.
Bud, let's start with you. Talk about the future and
the dangers we face in our industry, specifically Denis, you mentioned solid state battery. Let me
related to storage. follow up on that, because you mentioned safety.
One of the things that you all have been working

BC One of the things, and it was mentioned

before, I think both by Kevin and Denis,
is some level of sustainable domestic production.
on is the idea of using technology to create a
safer system. Talk a little bit about that.

It is necessary for security, and in general, for

our economy. We've got to make sure that we
have the governmental tempo and guidance, and
DP Batteries can be made very safe,
especially with lithium-ion phosphate
cathodes you can really reduce the possibility of a
structure support. If we don't have that domestic thermal runaway which of course it is each time it
production, then we'll be in danger, relying on happens, it's awful for the industry as a whole.
maybe still be China, maybe it will be another
country. That's one thing that poses a risk. We look at it from a different point of view –
if you have a large installation in a home, then
Every day, when I wake up, the first thing I it's not just the potential for thermal runaway,
do, I check the news feed and I say, did I have but the flammability of the electrolyte itself.
enough? Did somebody have another fire or an And so, we are looking at how we can remove
explosion in energy storage? To me, that is, A, the potential for even the contribution of the
unacceptable to have, and, B, I don't understand batteries to an existing fire. Because in homes
why the rest of the industry hasn't done what you can get electrical fires and, if you've got
they should do to solve the problem. a large battery there, then that fire is that
much harder to put out. Therefore, we've been
We took a completely different approach with focusing our efforts on solid-state batteries.
our system.
The research on solid-state batteries is not
We're looking forward to not having the issues focused on those metrics. You know, you put
that other people have had, because it causes a in a solid electrolyte to block dendrites and
problem with trying to get something permanent allow for lithium metal anode, or even an
locally. The people with the pitchforks come out anode list battery, and all of a sudden, you
and say, No, you're not going to put that in my got really fast charging and very high energy
backyard, because I saw that Tesla burning down density. So it's a little bit of a different way that
the street, or, I heard about a fire in New York, we look at it in terms of our approach, and it
and I don't want that in my street, in my town. really is the reason we did that. Because of the
manufacturing process, the powder coating
I think it's really up to the industry to self police process just lends itself perfectly to a ceramic-
itself. It's not going to be standards or NSBA heavy composite electrolyte, but I also want to
standards, it's going to be the industry itself address your question about danger ahead.
that says, Dammit, I don't want to have thermal
runaway. It's more than one cell in a system, I don't look at it like that, as much as the
because that's manageable and then we push the opportunity that awaits. It's historically huge, in
cell industry to not have thermal runaway period. terms of that we can change the economics of
this country if we can keep things domestic.

AR Excellent.
If you all remember, it was what about
20 years ago where the largest lithium-ion utility
This is the future, you know. If we go back to a
fossil-fuel-based economy globally, then we're
scale in Hawaii melted down to the ground. playing with fire. Literally.

BC
Photo: Shutterstock

That was lead acid. But the fact that we could actually take the
I Had a conversation with the with the lithium-ion battery, or just storage in general,
woman who chose that company, that supplier which is an American innovation anyway, and
over lithium and sure, we were laughing about it, just lead the world again and drive the economy,
Transformer Technology February 2024 43

Issue 34

If we go back to a fossil-
fuel-based economy
globally, then we're
playing with fire.
Literally.
Denis Phares

You need to have

enough trust between
the manufacturers and
society... We're moving
fast, but we're making
sure we take the due
diligence regarding
safety concerns.
Kevin Schneider
44 GREEN ENERGY

Microgrids – I love
them, I think they're
going to be a part of the
future... the technology
of microgrids with
batteries is here today.
Kevin Schneider

I think will put this country back on a path of All the new technologies are going to have to
innovation and profitability as a country that I move fast. And then these devices are going
think we are, we desperately need right now. to reside there. This is going to be happening
on utility scale for 15, possibly 20 plus years.

AR Excellent, excellent. So, Kevin, last to

comment on the danger.
Over that timeframe, there will be events that
are going to have negative press, so how do we
make sure that we build that trust between the

KS I think it goes back to what Bud said

about building trust, because you're
dealing with something inherently has a lot of
developers that say no?

Yes, we're moving fast, but we're making sure we

energy. It's never going to be 100% safe. There's take the due diligence regarding safety concerns.
always going to be an instance or two of a risky We're looking at new chemistries, and how do
situation, or there'll be a certain challenge. we build that together? That's going to be tough,
and I think it's going to be one of the things that
But you need to have enough trust between we really have to focus on, in order for it to be
the manufacturers and society that they say, successful.
OK, it happened, but we know that these folks
are doing their due diligence, doing the proper
engineering so that we can move forward. AUDIENCE QUESTIONS
Photo: Shutterstock

Because what we're looking at as an industry, it's

going to have to move very fast to get to all those
things that Denis was talking about, building
local capacity.
AR We've got a lot more questions than
we have time to answer. I'll go through
the ones I've got really quickly.
Transformer Technology February 2024 45

Issue 34

Is there documentation showing that BESS

implementation is a lower cost solution
compared to a gas gen solution? Let’s start with
KS I'd break that into two parts. One is your
local resiliency. If you have a big storm
that comes by, energy storage could power up a
you, Bud, what does that mean? house, or a small community.

BC Like I was saying earlier, you when

we crossed that thousand-dollar-per-
kilowatt-hour threshold, which was years ago,
We saw this down in Florida during one of the big
storms, where they had a whole plan developed
that rode through on batteries and solar the
that's really the threshold where you don't put whole time.
in a gas peaker. The battery can provide that.
We're not talking about gas generation for That's one example, but if you start talking about
baseload, we're talking about a peaker plant. I very large scale, gigawatt-scale energy storage on
know you're talking about 2-4 hours worth of the bulk system, I would say it has the technical
storage. We're already there. potential to significantly improve the system.
When you've got technologies like grid-forming

AR Fortunately, we already have a lot of gas

peaker plants and shale oil pumping,
we're trying to get gas to became so cheap that you
inverters, there are very fast controls. They can
stabilize instabilities in the system, and they can
be a real benefit.
saw a lot of utilities get those peaker plants. When
we started closing down coal plants, you had to The real challenge with that, though, is that once
now use some of them. They weren't just peaker you have a single utility, we've got multiple utilities
plants anymore, some of them. You had to get operating the system. There are different power
your normal generation from them. plants in different locations, so co-ordination
becomes an issue. So where I'm going with this is
But good point. Anybody else, comment on that they have the technical potential. They can
that? absolutely stabilize the system, if we don't learn
how to do it in the context of the larger system

KS I guess I would add one thing. Bud is

absolutely right. There are economic
cases where it pencils out right now. But I would
that could actually cause instabilities in the
system, which is true of any large-scale resource.
So that's an opportunity, but also a caution.
also look at extreme events, resiliency type events.

People are used to situations where a big storm

comes through, and they are blacked out, maybe,
AR Thank you, Bud, Denis, comment on
that.

and you've got enough backup fuel on hand for

a little bit of time. But if you have these hybrid
systems that have some solar and batteries, they
DP I would agree that the resiliency
is really optimized when you have
distributed generation and distributed storage.
can operate not necessarily indefinitely, but they
can go a lot longer. We've talked about the grid edge before, Alan,
and the fact that you can generate and store
I'm up here in Seattle, one of the big concerns we at the edge means that locally you have more
have is a Cascadia earthquake event. We’re 100 resiliency.
years past due, if that ever hits, you will not be
able to get fuel in, probably for weeks. Not that
solar is necessarily the perfect resource in Seattle,
but in summertime you could possibly run 24/7
AR What is the role of storage in micro
grids? How important is it and what
have we done, and what are you seeing out there,
because you've got storage and some renewables. because there are more and more opportunities?

It is, as I say, not an either-or, but right now there I know there's a bakery in California, they have
are some cases where the batteries went out, six plants. Bakeries usually emit heat, right?
hands down. And they are off the grid. One of the big reasons
they're off is because of storage. They use

AR You just hit on one of the other

questions, I want to stay on it.
primarily solar, some wind, but storage is the
most significant. They're not using Southern Cal
Edison or PG&E anymore, and I know that's bad
The question is, and the question was posed more for those utilities, but it is good for us, and good
in a negative way, how does the advancement for us who eat bread.
of large-scale, utility-scale storage impact the
resiliency, reliability, and stability of the grid? Let’s talk about the future of these microgrids
and why storage will play a role in it, and how
So, you might have just answered it, but it's talked storage is already playing a role on it. Let's start
about more than just resiliency. with you, Bud.
46 GREEN ENERGY

BC When we talk about microgrids, you

can go from having a small cluster of
homes or a cluster of businesses, or a microgrid
events, as well as be collaborative partners in
that.

could be a 10-megawatt type generating I would say that the technology of microgrids
system. with batteries is here today. I've toured Duke
Energy's Mount Hollie microgrid, all inverter-
One of the biggest things about distributed based, transition is seamless, you can't tell
energy storage are really the regulations. it. I toured a ship yard in Hawaii that 95% of
California continues to lead in setting markets the time ran off batteries and solar. That's a
and allowing for storage to participate in grid- shipyard, a heavy industrial environment, and
scale activities. So, now you have things that they were able to do it.
are behind the meter; a lot of businesses,
large buildings, they've got storage deployed I'm not going to say it's turnkey off the shelf,
for their systems to give them resiliency. But but it's something that can be bought today,
that's an asset sitting there that could earn and the technology is quite advanced.
some money, and now they can participate in
grid activities. That's a unique opportunity in
California. We want to see that all across the
whole country.
AR We’ve come to an end.
You mentioned this whole concept of
inter-operability, which is using software, making
grid smarter, and being able to level throughout
All utilities that allow that participation do so the grid. This requires a lot of collaboration
because that will give us that resiliency. If you between a lot of organizations from the federal
look at the amount of money that it's going to government to the municipals and the co-ops
take to strengthen the distribution network and the IOUs. I think it's going to be driven by
and change the distribution network to bring economics, and, as you said, Denis, we've got to
double the power to the homes, because they're have a secure nation that we can supply.
going to have EVs, and they're going to be all
electric, that's not going to happen very quickly. This, to me, is Henry Ford, when he created
There’s a lot of capital. It has to be deployed. the assembly line. If he didn't have a national
So, storage plays a big role in fitting in there, program to build gas stations across the country,
and cutting down on the need to do those big no matter how many Model T or Model A
upgrades, where storage can handle those Fords he built, they wouldn't have been able
peaks, those long periods of time when the grid to get anywhere because Stanley Steamer had
is just overstressed, or there's no power grid. everything he needed – water and wood. It was
all around. You didn't have gas stations in Peoria,

AR Same question, Denis, and we're

coming to an end here, so you're going
to be our last, Kevin, on this one.
and they had to make sure that they're there, and
it was a national project. Of course, Standard Oil
had a lot to do with it, the Rockefellers, and so
on. That became a national mandate in order to

DP I apologize for pre-empting that

question, because that was my point
in terms of the distributed nature of it.
create what we now live with, which is a modern
transportation system powered by gas. That's
where we are. That's my last word.

But just to expand on that, I think the exciting Kevin Schneider from PNNL, thank you so much,
part of it is the ability of these distributed brilliant. Denis Phares from Dragonfly Energy.
and micro networks to contribute to a very Once again, I appreciate you, brother. You always
smart grid, a software-driven grid, where we bring great perspective and insight. Bud Collins
can optimize and minimize transmission and from AESI, thank you for joining us. You guys
optimize efficiency. I think that's the world where have been brilliant, and we appreciate it very
we're headed. That's the grid that we're heading much. This has been a Power Panel discussion
towards when we start to talk about distributed from APC media. Thank you all for joining us.
generation and storage.

AR Excellent. So, Kevin, we're at the end

here. The last word.

KS Microgrids – I love them, I think they're

going to be a part of the future. It's
not an either-or. I think we're going to have a
bulk system that provides us a lot of economic Watch the full Power Panel Discussion
benefit. Microgrids can help us during local on our website.
Transformer Technology February 2024 WOMEN 47

Issue 34 OF NOTE

Samantha Deeney
SAMANTHA DEENEY joined power electronic and FACTS devices MEPPI’s culture has continuously
Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, and other resources. proven as a supportive environment
Inc. (MEPPI) Power Systems from our leaders to grow and
Engineering Division in February Samantha has authored several develop skills within the organization
2018. Prior to joining MEPPI, she publications and has received a with equal opportunity amongst
graduated from the University of patent for the creation of a power women and men. Innovative ideas
Pittsburgh at Johnstown with her oscillation damping controller with and advancement are encouraged
Bachelor of Science degree in dynamic gain control, such that the
at MEPPI, which fosters technical
Electrical Engineering Technology. She control adaptively detects and adjusts
then continued her education at the gain whilst damping sustain power solutions for the challenging
University of Pittsburgh as a graduate oscillation utilizing reactive power, problems that are faced presently
student researcher and earned her which is integrated into devices such by the overall power industry and in
Master of Science degree in Electrical as STATCOMS. the years to come.
Engineering with a focus on power.
During her time researching at the Samantha looks to stay on the cusp
University of Pittsburgh, Samantha of technology given the ever-changing
focused on grid-tied microgrid industry and continues to pursue
protection schemes for upstream advancement in education and
faults researching ways to safely industry activity. She continues

edition of the Women in Power Systems.

Find more inspiring stories in our online
disconnect and island microgrids in to be involved in groups such
the event a fault would occur upstream as CIGRE and continues to
on the bulk electric system. actively publish papers on
developments within
Samantha is a Senior Engineer her group in PSED, as
at MEPPI in the Power Systems well as participating
Engineering Division (PSED). She has in internal
continuously developed her skills organizations
at MEPPI in various niche areas. within MEPPI
Throughout her career, Samantha has such as the
performed load flow and dynamic company’s
stability analysis for system impact Professional
and generation interconnection/ Women’s
retirement, as well as large scale Network
resiliency analysis, such as CIP-014. (PWN).
She has executed and managed
multiple Flexible AC Transmission
System (FACTS) studies for STATCOM
devices, involving PSCAD and PSS/E
studies such as control tuning,
dynamic performance, short-circuit,
interaction analysis, harmonic stability
screening, and electromagnetic
transient analysis. Samantha has
also performed various steady-state
feasibility analyses for potential
HVDC placements and planning
evaluations, specifically within dense
load pocket areas, such as data center
concentrated load. She has executed
harmonic analysis and is experienced
in filter design. She has modeling
and software experience in
platforms such as EMTP-RV,
PSCAD, PSS Sincal, PSS/E,
and TARA PowerGEM.
Her responsibilities at
MEPPI include leading,
managing, and
executing projects
for the reliable
integration of
48 GOING GREEN

Going Green:
An Evolution, not a Revolution
The quest for sustainable energy and electrifying various sectors while hydrogen emerges as a promising
alternative low-carbon fuel sources simultaneously reducing carbon solution for decarbonizing these
persists as the global community emissions from the power generation challenging sectors and those
pushes towards decarbonization, process. However, certain industries resistant to electrification. Renewable
recognizing the pivotal role of energy present unique challenges, making energy-driven green hydrogen
consumption in greenhouse gas electrification alone insufficient stands out as a sustainable and
(GHG) emissions worldwide. Nations for decarbonization. These hard- eco-friendly alternative. Unlike gray
worldwide are committing to carbon to-abate sectors include long-haul hydrogen derived from fossil fuels,
neutrality and achieving net zero transportation (such as trucking, the production of green hydrogen
emissions, necessitating substantial shipping, and aviation) as well involves water decomposition using
shifts in our energy consumption as heavy industries like steel and renewable electricity, resulting in
patterns. One of the most impactful cement production. Additionally, the zero carbon dioxide emissions and
strategies in this endeavor involves transition to electrification demands negligible pollutants. Embracing green
a parallel effort to decarbonize the hydrogen technology is imperative
power sector itself. In this landscape, for advancing environmental
sustainability and curbing carbon
emissions, signaling a significant
stride towards a cleaner, more
sustainable future.

Photo: Shutterstock
 Transformer Technology February 2024 49

Issue 34

Dr. Ahad Esmaeilian is Vice President of Clean

Energy at Audubon Engineering Company. He
ONE OF THE holds bachelor and master’s degrees in Elec-
MOST IMPACTFUL trical Engineering from The University of Teh-
ran, a master’s degree in Business Administra-
STRATEGIES IN THIS tion from the Clarkson University, and a PhD
ENDEAVOR INVOLVES in Electrical Engineering from the Texas A&M
University, and has a rich experience in both
ELECTRIFYING electrical engineering and business. He is al-
VARIOUS so a Senior Member of the IEEE and currently
serves as the Chairman of the IEEE PES Grid
SECTORS WHILE Edge Technologies Conference & Expo.
SIMULTANEOUSLY
REDUCING CARBON
EMISSIONS FROM THE
POWER GENERATION
PROCESS.
50 GOING GREEN

While green hydrogen presents a could produce up to 60 million electric vehicles (FCEVs) powered
plethora of benefits, its optimization tonnes of hydrogen yearly by 2050, by hydrogen. Additionally, initiatives
requires concerted efforts in translating to a market size of are underway to utilize hydrogen
enhancing production, storage, USD 150 billion per year. for heavy-duty vehicles, buses, and
transportation, and utilization trains.
technologies. Additionally, factors • United States: By 2030, the United
such as production costs and States aims to achieve 5 GW of • Industrial Applications: Industries
infrastructure development warrant hydrogen production, prioritizing such as steel, chemicals, and
careful consideration to fully exploit its green hydrogen from renewable refineries are exploring green
potential. Nonetheless, the widespread sources. The Hydrogen Council hydrogen to reduce their carbon
recognition of green hydrogen as a anticipates that by 2050, the footprint. Hydrogen can serve as
sustainable and clean energy solution U.S. could cater to a quarter of a feedstock, reducing agent, or
underscores the current emphasis on the global hydrogen demand, source of heat in various industrial
advancing related technologies. potentially amounting to a market processes.
size of USD 140 billion annually.
HYDROGEN EMERGES • Refining and Petrochemicals: The
• Japan: Japan's target for 2030 refining and petrochemical sectors
AS A PROMISING includes producing 300,000 are investigating green hydrogen to
SOLUTION FOR tonnes of hydrogen annually, with lower carbon emissions. Hydrogen
a preference for green hydrogen can replace fossil fuels in refining
DECARBONIZING sourced from renewables. As per processes like desulfurization and
THESE CHALLENGING the Hydrogen Council, Japan might hydrocracking, thereby supporting
contribute up to 20% of the world's the decarbonization of operations
SECTORS AND THOSE hydrogen demand by 2050, with a in these industries.
RESISTANT TO prospective market size of USD 80
billion per year. • Aviation: The aviation industry
ELECTRIFICATION. is actively researching the use of
• Australia: By 2030, Australia aims green hydrogen as a sustainable
to produce hydrogen at a cost aviation fuel. Hydrogen-powered
Green Hydrogen Production below AUD 2 per kilogram, primarily aircraft, whether through
by 2050: focusing on green hydrogen from combustion or fuel cells, have the
renewable sources. Projections potential to significantly reduce
Despite its complexity, various from the Australian Renewable greenhouse gas emissions
organizations and research institutions Energy Agency (ARENA) indicate compared to traditional jet fuels.
have developed models to estimate Australia could account for up to
the production of green hydrogen in 10% of global hydrogen demand • Energy Storage and Grid
major countries worldwide from 2020 by 2050, potentially comprising an Balancing: Green hydrogen plays
to 2050. These models incorporate AUD 11 billion per year market. a vital role in energy storage and
factors such as policy support, grid balancing. During periods of
technological advancements, market These estimations and forecasts low demand, excess renewable
dynamics, and the accessibility of collectively suggest a significant energy can be utilized for hydrogen
renewable energy. [1]. surge in green hydrogen production production through electrolysis.
across key countries from 2020 to The stored hydrogen can then
• Europe: The European Union 2050, driven by supportive policies, be converted back to electricity
aims to achieve 40 GW of green technological advancements, market through fuel cells or combustion
hydrogen production by 2030, dynamics, and the availability of during periods of high demand,
alongside generating 10 million renewable energy sources. thereby stabilizing the grid and
tonnes of renewable hydrogen ensuring a reliable energy supply.
within the same timeframe.
Projections from the Hydrogen Industries and Applications: • Residential Heating: Green
Council suggest Europe could hydrogen offers a viable alternative
annually produce up to 800 TWh Green hydrogen is poised to for residential heating, displacing
of hydrogen by 2050, potentially revolutionize diverse industries natural gas and other carbon-
constituting a market worth EUR by offering a clean, efficient, and intensive fuels. Hydrogen boilers
630 billion annually. versatile energy solution. and fuel cells can provide heat and
hot water without emitting carbon.
• China: With a focus on green • Transportation: The transportation
hydrogen derived from renewable sector is increasingly embracing • Energy Export: Countries abundant
sources, China targets an annual green hydrogen as a zero-emission in renewable energy resources,
Photo: Shutterstock

production of 5 million tonnes by fuel option. Automakers like such as Australia and Canada, are
2025. The International Energy Toyota, Hyundai, and BMW are exploring green hydrogen export
Agency (IEA) forecasts that China developing and deploying fuel cell opportunities. Liquefied hydrogen
Transformer Technology February 2024 51

Issue 34

GREEN HYDROGEN
IS POISED TO
REVOLUTIONIZE
DIVERSE INDUSTRIES
BY OFFERING A
CLEAN, EFFICIENT,
AND VERSATILE
ENERGY SOLUTION.
or other derivative green fuels such
as ammonia and methanol can be
transported as a commodity,
enabling nations to share their
renewable energy potential with
regions lacking such resources.

These examples underscore the

global momentum toward green
hydrogen adoption, driven by
its potential to decarbonize various
sectors and foster a sustainable,
cleaner energy future.
 52
GOING GREEN

Photo: Shutterstock
Transformer Technology February 2024 53

Issue 34

Innovative Methods of Producing Subjecting the compound to high

Clean Hydrogen: temperatures breaks molecular
bonds, releasing hydrogen gas.
Researchers and scientists By using heat from renewable
worldwide are actively investigating energy sources, thermolysis
and developing new technologies, ensures an environmentally friendly
materials, and processes to enhance production process.
the efficiency, scalability, and cost
effectiveness of renewable hydrogen • Photo Electrochemical (PEC)
production, storage, and usage. Water Splitting: PEC water splitting
By continuously advancing these utilizes specialized semiconductor
methods, the aim is to facilitate materials to directly convert solar
the widespread adoption of clean energy into hydrogen. These
hydrogen as a sustainable energy materials can absorb sunlight and
solution [51]. initiate the water-splitting reaction
within the cell, generating hydrogen
• Plasma Arc Decomposition: and oxygen. PEC technology offers
Plasma arc decomposition, also the potential for efficient and direct
known as plasma reforming, utilizes solar-driven hydrogen production,
high temperatures generated by an eliminating the need for external
electric arc to break down natural electricity sources.
gas (methane) into hydrogen and
carbon monoxide. This occurs • Artificial Photosynthesis: Artificial
within a plasma reactor, where the photosynthesis is an emerging field
intense heat dissociates methane that seeks to replicate the process
molecules, liberating hydrogen gas. of natural photosynthesis in plants
When electricity for the plasma arc to produce hydrogen. It involves
decomposition is sourced from using specialized materials and
renewables, this method qualifies catalysts to capture sunlight
as a green hydrogen production and initiate chemical reactions
technique. that produce hydrogen from
water. Artificial photosynthesis
• Thermolysis: Thermolysis involves holds promise for renewable and
the decomposition of a chemical sustainable hydrogen production,
compound, such as water or but it is still an area of ongoing
hydrocarbons, by applying heat. research and development.
54 GOING GREEN

Green Hydrogen Challenges and and pressure requirements, for successful green hydrogen
Observations: complicate hydrogen storage. implementation.

It is crucial to recognize the • Cost: Competitiveness requires • Regulatory Framework:

transformative potential that green reducing hydrogen gas costs to Supportive regulations are vital
hydrogen holds in the transition to around USD 2 per kilogram or lowrer. for green hydrogen deployment.
sustainable energy is not without its
obstacles. Below, we explore the array • Electricity Demand: Green • Public Awareness: Raising public
of challenges that must be addressed hydrogen demands significant awareness and acceptance is
to realize the full promise of green electricity, necessitating increased essential.
hydrogen as a clean energy solution. renewable energy production.
Currently, the clean hydrogen
• Energy Loss: Around 30% of green • Offshore Wind Capacity: market struggles to match the
hydrogen's energy content is lost Developing offshore wind energy economic competitiveness of fossil
during hydrogen liquefaction, is crucial to meet green hydrogen fuels, largely due to the absence of
meaning each unit produced only demand. environmental costs in fossil fuel
retains 70% of its available energy. prices. Nevertheless, as technology
• Infrastructure: Establishing advances and production costs
• Liquid Hydrogen Storage: comprehensive infrastructure for for clean hydrogen decrease over
Storing liquid hydrogen presents production, storage, and distribution time, this disparity is anticipated to
challenges due to the extremely is challenging. diminish. Meeting the rising demand
low storage temperature required for clean hydrogen necessitates
(-253°C) and the necessity for • Scaling Up: Meeting demand robust infrastructure, efficient
effective isolation systems. across sectors requires significant production and storage methods,
production scale-up. and cost reductions.
• Safety Concerns: Hydrogen's
flammability and potential for • Electrolysis Technology: Governments and enterprises
oxygen dilution pose safety risks. Enhancing electrolysis efficiency are poised to invest in research,
and cost-effectiveness is key. development, and innovation to
• High Energy Density: Hydrogen's bolster the clean hydrogen market's
wide combustible range, low boiling • Renewable Energy Availability: competitiveness [68].
point, and high energy density Reliance on intermittent
require careful handling to prevent renewables poses supply It is through careful consideration
accidents. challenges. and collaboration that the full
potential of green hydrogen can be
• Technical Hurdles: Technical • International Collaboration: realized, leading to a cleaner and
challenges, like high temperature Global cooperation is necessary more sustainable energy future.

CURRENTLY, THE
CLEAN HYDROGEN
MARKET STRUGGLES
TO MATCH THE
References
[1] EIA. Renewable Energy Explained. ECONOMIC
Available online: https://www.eia.
COMPETITIVENESS
gov/energyexplained/renewable-
sources/ OF FOSSIL FUELS,
[2] Di, L.G.; Olufemi, O.A.; Kumar,
LARGELY DUE TO
A. Blending blue hydrogen
with natural gas for direct THE ABSENCE OF
consumption: Examining the
ENVIRONMENTAL
effect of hydrogen concentration
on transportation and well-to- COSTS IN FOSSIL
combustion greenhouse gas
FUEL PRICES.
emissions. Int. J. Hydrogen Energy
2021, 46, 19202–19216.
Transformer Technology February 2024 55

Issue 34

JOIN THE GLOBAL COIL

WINDING AND ELECTRICAL
MANUFACTURING EVENT
We offer the opportunity to connect with
and learn from industry leaders dedicated
to environmentally conscious technologies.

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berlin.cwiemeevents.com
56 SOLID STATE
TOPIC
MISSING
BATTERIES

Solid State Batteries:

Current Status and Future
in the BEVs Market
by Abdullah Bin Kamran

Photo: PTR Inc.

Transformer Technology February 2024 57

Issue 34

• Recent years have seen a surge

in demand for sustainable
transportation driven by
environmental awareness,
with electric vehicles (EVs)
leading the way in reshaping
the automotive industry.

• Battery technology, particularly

Lithium-ion batteries, has
significantly improved, enabling
longer driving ranges and faster
charging times for EVs. However,
challenges linked with energy
density, safety, and cost persist.

• Solid-state batteries hold

promise in addressing these
challenges and revolutionizing
the EV landscape.

Abdullah Bin Kamran serves as an Analyst

at PTR Inc. He focuses on the topic of energy
storage and battery energy storage systems.
He specializes in research on the global en-

U nlike oil and

ergy storage market, covering areas such
as market sizing of different markets, pol- In recent years, the demand for
gas-powered
icy landscapes, market developments, pro- sustainable transportation has
ject pipelines, project installations, and the surged, driven by awareness of generation facilities,
advancement of new battery technologies. fossil fuels' environmental impact. power cables and
He also covers the battery value chain and Electric Vehicles (EVs) are reshaping transformers at utility
tracks the supply chain advancements in the global automotive industry and scale renewable sites
the industry, such as the installation of raw pushing towards a greener future.
play a much bigger
material plants and battery gigafactories. Batteries are crucial for electric
He holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from vehicles, their performance, and the role connecting the
LUMS, which gives him the required technical safety of the driver. Currently, lithium- distributed generation
knowledge on his topic. ion batteries are dominating the to the grid.
global electric vehicles market, but it
is expected that solid-state batteries
will revolutionize the EV landscape
due to their superior characteristics,
including improved lifespan, energy
density, and safety.
58 SOLID STATE
BATTERIES

Overview of the EV Global Growth • Current lithium-ion batteries suffer from limitations in energy density,
Landscape which can constrain the driving range of electric vehicles, presenting a
challenge to EV manufacturers striving to meet consumer expectations for
The worldwide rise in EV adoption can extended range capabilities.
be attributed to government-driven
clean energy goals. Governments • Lithium-ion batteries are vulnerable to thermal runaway, a situation in
globally promote EV adoption with which overheating can result in rapid and uncontrollable battery failure,
incentives, subsidies, and green raising safety concerns and necessitating the implementation of robust
policies to cut emissions, boost thermal management systems in EVs.
energy security, and generate eco-
friendly employment opportunities. • The persistently high cost of lithium-ion batteries continues to be a major
Substantial investment by automotive impediment to widespread EV adoption. While prices have decreased over
OEMs in EV R&D and diverse electric time, affordability remains a pivotal factor in expanding the electric vehicle
models have also sped up consumer market.
adoption, making EVs more
accessible. The global EV market • The substantial weight of lithium-ion batteries can have a significant
forecast reflects the anticipated impact on the overall weight and handling characteristics of electric
significant expansion in the industry. vehicles.

S olid-state batteries
hold promise in
addressing these
challenges and
revolutionizing the
EV landscape.

Global BEVs Annual Additions

40
Global Annual Additions (Millions)

35

30

25

20

15

10

0
2021 2025 2030
Photo: Shutterstock

Figure 1: Global BEVs Annual Additions.

Source: PTR Inc.
Transformer Technology February 2024 59

Issue 34

Existing Battery Technologies The distinctions among currently LFP batteries are renowned for their
used batteries stem from differences intrinsic safety and thermal stability,
One of the primary catalysts behind in safety, lifespan, and energy density. making them a favored choice for
the growth of the EV market is Battery chemistry plays a pivotal certain EV applications. Conversely,
the rapid progression in battery role in determining the performance, NCM/NMC batteries strike a balance
technology. Lithium-ion batteries, safety, and cost of various battery between energy density and cost,
which power most EVs, have seen types utilized in EVs. Within the realm making them a widely adopted
significant enhancements in energy of widely used lithium-ion batteries, option by many automakers for their
density, charging speed, and overall some common types include lithium electric vehicles. LCO batteries, while
performance. This has led to cobalt oxide (LCO), lithium iron offering high energy density, are more
extended driving ranges and reduced phosphate (LFP), and lithium nickel frequently employed in smaller EVs,
charging times, addressing key cobalt manganese oxide (NCM/NMC), such as electric scooters and e-bikes,
concerns that previously hindered each offering specific trade-offs in due to their lower cost.
EV adoption. Furthermore, ongoing terms of energy density, safety,
research and development into next- and cost.
generation batteries like solid-state
and lithium-sulfur batteries hold the
potential for even greater energy
densities, further boosting the EV
market's expansion.
60 SOLID STATE
BATTERIES

Solid State Batteries: The Promising The potential benefits of solid-state density compared to the graphite
Solution to EV Batteries batteries aim to address critical anodes typically used in lithium-ion
challenges associated with traditional batteries. This translates to increased
Solid-state batteries signify a lithium-ion batteries. Enhanced safety electric vehicle driving range,
groundbreaking advancement in instills greater consumer confidence, alleviating range anxiety and making
battery technology. In contrast to addressing a primary concern them more suitable for long-distance
conventional lithium-ion batteries that hindering widespread EV adoption. travel. The improved energy density
use liquid electrolytes to facilitate ion Additionally, solid-state electrolytes also allows for reduced battery
movement between the cathode and allow for the use of lithium metal weight, addressing a current issue
anode, solid-state batteries employ anodes, which offer higher energy with existing batteries.
solid-state electrolytes, eliminating
the need for flammable and volatile
components. This critical design
change enhances safety by reducing
the risk of thermal runaway and fire
hazards while also enabling higher
energy density, longer cycle life, and
faster charging.

Scoring of Different Battery Chemistries

Solid State

NMC

LFP

0 2 4 6 8 10 12

Thermal Safety Energy Density Cycle Count

Photo: Shutterstock

Figure 2: Scoring of Different Battery Chemistries

Source: PTR Inc.
Transformer Technology February 2024 61

Issue 34

The accompanying graphic illustrates Players Working on Solid-State

the anticipated decline in the average Batteries
price per kWh for solid-state batteries
in comparison to existing technologies. The emergence of solid-state
Ongoing research and development by batteries has attracted significant
major industry players suggest that this attention from prominent
price could potentially drop significantly stakeholders in the automotive,
lower as the product is mass-produced technology, and energy industries.
and the supply chain and material Leading car manufacturers like
sourcing are optimized for solid-state Toyota, BMW, and Volkswagen
batteries. Battery costs constitute a are actively dedicating resources
significant portion of the overall cost to research and develop solid-
for consumer-market EVs. With higher state battery technology for use
energy density and improved cost in electric vehicles. The attached
efficiency, solid-state batteries have graphic provides a timeline
the potential to become the dominant illustrating ongoing and forthcoming
battery technology for EVs, resulting in collaborations and advancements
lower prices for consumers. within the solid-state battery sector.

T he potential benefits of
solid-state batteries aim
to address critical challenges
associated with traditional
lithium-ion batteries. Enhanced
safety instills greater consumer
confidence, addressing a primary
concern hindering widespread EV
adoption.
62 SOLID STATE
BATTERIES

Inhibitors Solid-State Batteries Beyond EVs In the realm of stationary energy

storage, solid-state batteries prove
Nonetheless, the commercialization Beyond their use in electric vehicles, invaluable for storing surplus
of solid-state batteries encounters solid-state batteries find applications renewable energy generated by
hurdles associated with production in various other domains, including sources like solar or wind power,
expenses and enduring reliability. An stationary energy storage. The unique especially in space-restricted projects.
issue within solid-state technology attributes of solid-state battery These batteries accumulate energy
is the formation of dendritic growth technology render them well-suited during periods of low demand
on lithium anodes, a phenomenon for energy storage applications and discharge it during peak
occurring during rapid charging requiring heightened energy density demand, thereby enhancing grid
that can result in battery failure, and enhanced safety compared to stability and reducing dependence
diminishing battery health, and its conventional battery technologies. on fossil fuels. Moreover, solid-
overall number of charge cycles. state batteries can elevate the
Since this technology is still in the performance and efficiency of off-
developmental phase, ongoing grid systems, such as remote power
research and testing are being stations or telecommunications
conducted to address and mitigate infrastructure. Their capacity to
this drawback. Once successfully provide a dependable and long-
managed, electric vehicles equipped
with solid-state batteries could
achieve a significant charge in a
considerably short timeframe, greatly

A
reducing charging durations and
enhancing user convenience.
s the world progressively
embraces a sustainable,
emissions-free future,
solid-state batteries are
positioned to play an
indispensable role in reshaping
the landscape of electric
transportation and stationary
energy storage.

Global Pricing Avg $/kWh

160

140

120
Avg Cost $/kWh

100

80

60

40

20

0
NMC LFP NCA Solid State

Figure 3: Global Pricing Average USD/kWh.

Source: PTR Inc.
Transformer Technology February 2024 63

Issue 34

lasting power source makes them This concerted effort is expected to

invaluable in scenarios where lead to reduced electric vehicle costs
grid access is limited, or supply is and enhanced reliability, thereby
intermittent. As solid-state battery facilitating the widespread adoption
technology advances and becomes of electric vehicles.
more prevalent, we can anticipate
further developments and innovative Furthermore, the application of solid-
applications that offer more state batteries in stationary energy
dependable, sustainable, and efficient storage is poised to benefit from
energy solutions. these advancements. As the world
progressively embraces a sustainable,
Looking Ahead emissions-free future, solid-state
batteries are positioned to play an
The automotive sector, battery indispensable role in reshaping the
manufacturers, and research landscape of electric transportation
institutions have all discerned the and stationary energy storage. It will
profound potential inherent in solid- also contribute significantly to the
state batteries. They are currently energy industry's progression towards
engaged in collaborative endeavors a cleaner and more environmentally
aimed at surmounting the challenges friendly energy ecosystem.
that this technology confronts in
terms of expanding production and
seamlessly integrating solid-state
batteries into the mass production of
electric vehicles.

Advancements in the
Solid-State Battery Sector

2020 Toyota // Panasonic QuantumScape // Volkswagen

Toyota, in 2020, announced a QuantumScape gained attention
collaboration with Panasonic to for their innovative solid-state
establish a joint venture focused battery designs, attracting
on solid-state. investments from industry giants
like Volkswagen, which
2021 materialized in the form of a $200
million investment from.
Ford // Solid Power
In 2021, Ford invested $130 million
in Solid Power, a solid-state
battery development company.

BMW // QuantumScape // Solid Power

BMW collaborated with various
partners, including Solid Power and
QuantumScape, for solid-state battery
development.

2024
Swiss Clean Battery (SCB)n
An industry-first solid-state
Gigafactory is set to be active by
2024 in Switzerland by battery
research start-up Swiss Clean
Battery (SCB) AG.

Figure 4: Ongoing and Forthcoming Advancements in the Solid-State Battery Sector.

Source: PTR Inc.
64 PERSPECTIVES

The Pacing of Solar Power Integration

in Industrial America: Unraveling the
Deliberate Stride

In an era marked by an increasing global installing solar panels. Industrial-scale operations

consciousness regarding environmental often require extensive energy, and the initial
sustainability, the slow adoption of solar power investment required for solar infrastructure can
in the industrial sector of the United States be a deterrent. Without extensive government
raises questions about the underlying factors incentives, most find this investment not
contributing to this gradual transition. While the aligning with many ROI capital goals. Despite
residential sector has witnessed a surge in solar the long-term cost savings and potential return
installations, the industrial landscape seems on investment over a longer time period than
to lag behind. A nuanced exploration of this most are willing to accept, businesses may find it
phenomenon unveils a confluence of economic, challenging to allocate significant capital for solar
regulatory, and technological considerations projects, particularly when weighed against more
that have influenced the measured pace of solar immediate financial priorities.
power integration in Industrial America.
Regulatory hurdles also play a role in the cautious
approach toward solar power adoption. The
complex nature of regulations governing energy
production and distribution varies across states,
One significant factor contributing to the slow creating a patchwork of compliance standards. This
adoption of solar power in the industrial sector inconsistency adds an extra layer of complexity
is the substantial upfront cost associated with for industrial entities seeking to implement solar
installing solar panels, often deterring businesses solutions, as they must navigate a labyrinth
due to a misalignment with immediate financial of bureaucratic processes and compliance
priorities and ROI capital goals. requirements, which can stifle enthusiasm for
adopting renewable energy sources.
One significant factor contributing to the slow
adoption of solar power in the industrial sector Moreover, the existing energy infrastructure
is the substantial upfront cost associated with heavily relies on traditional fossil fuels, and

Photo: SDMyers
Transformer Technology February 2024 65

Issue 34

transitioning to solar power necessitates a Author:

restructuring of the energy grid. Integrating solar Dale Bissonette
energy at an industrial scale requires extensive CEO of Good Place Holdings
planning, technological upgrades, and coordination and SD Myers
among various stakeholders. This process can be
time-consuming, and businesses may be hesitant
to undertake such endeavors without clear
incentives or mandates compelling them to do so.

Regulatory hurdles also play a role in the

cautious approach toward solar power adoption,
with varying compliance standards across states
creating a complex landscape that industrial
entities must navigate, potentially stifling
enthusiasm for renewable energy sources.

Furthermore, some industrial entities may be

skeptical about the reliability of solar power,
especially in regions with inconsistent sunlight
patterns or severe weather conditions. Concerns
about the intermittency of solar energy production
and the need for supplementary energy sources
during periods of low sunlight can create
reservations among industrial decision-makers.

Despite these challenges, it is crucial to

acknowledge the positive strides being made.
Many industrial players are gradually recognizing
the long-term benefits of transitioning to solar
power, not only in terms of cost savings but also
in reducing their carbon footprint. Government
incentives and an increasing societal emphasis on
sustainability are gradually tilting the scales
in favor of solar adoption.

Dale Bissonette is the CEO of Good Place Holdings

and SDMyers (a Good Place Holdings company).
Dale has led local, national, and international
Moreover, the existing energy infrastructure
heavily reliant on traditional fossil fuels presents organizations in the for-profit and non-profit sectors
a barrier to solar adoption in the industrial sector, based on Biblical principles and values for over thirty
requiring extensive planning, technological years as Owner, CEO, President, Board Chair and
upgrades, and coordination among stakeholders, Member, and CFO. He is also a board member and
which can be time-consuming and may lack clear
audit chairman of the Timothy Plan Trust, a $2 billion
incentives or mandates compelling businesses to
transition. mutual fund with 80,000 investors. Under Dale’s
leadership, Good Place Holdings manages and operates
The slow integration of solar power into the nine businesses, including B2B, B2C, industrial, and
industrial landscape in America is a multifaceted community-based organizations. He has also served as
issue, with economic, regulatory, and technological a board of trustee member at the Chapel in Akron and
dimensions. As awareness of the environmental
the Chapel Hill Christian School. Dale holds a Bachelor
impact grows and as technology advances, it is anti-
cipated that the industrial sector will increasingly of Science in Accounting from The University of Akron.
embrace solar power solutions, paving the way for He has been married for 40 years with four children
a more sustainable and resilient energy future. and 11 grandchildren.
66 POWER ASSET
MONITORING

Power Asset Monitoring:

Renewable Energy Plants
Differences Versus Utilities?
by Dan Roth

Photo: Dynamic Ratings

Transformer Technology February 2024 67

Issue 34

It is no secret that energy policy

in North America is focused
on increasing the availability of
renewable energy resources to meet
environmental objectives.
This policy extends from tax
subsidies to encourage construction
of utility scale wind and solar
sites to federal grants to support
transmission infrastructure to deliver
this energy from generation to load
centers. Policy is also in place to
accelerate the deactivation of fossil
fuel generation sites. Wind, solar PV,
and hybrid generation are projected
to be the primary additions to the
resource mix over the next
10 years; this leads the continued
energy transition as older thermal
generators retire [1].

What is surprising is that there are

several areas of the country that are
projected at High or Elevated risk
levels of inadequate electricity supply
driven in many ways by this energy
transition. Generator retirements and
increasing demand are outpacing
planned projects to maintain
necessary energy reserves [1].
This puts an ever-increasing concern
over the availability and reliability of
existing installed renewable energy
sources.

Dan Roth is currently the Sales and Marketing

Director for Dynamic Ratings based in Sus-
sex, Wi. He received his Bachelor of Science
degree in electrical engineering from the Uni-
versity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He
possesses more than 20 years of industry
experience having previously been employed
at Eaton (Cooper Power Systems) and Sch-
weitzer Engineering Labs. His career has al-
lowed for a wide range of experiences from
relay system protection, feeder automation,
communicating smart sensors to distribution
line installation and protective equipment.
Mr. Roth has contributed several papers and
patents to the industry in that time.
68 POWER ASSET
MONITORING

When adverse conditions occur from These sites are also starting to address asset health conditions
extreme heat and cold temperatures be deemed as more critical to the before they impact site reliability.
it is critical to the reliability of the bulk overall infrastructure to the grid
energy systems that these generating which is bringing more and more Many wind farms today already
resources are available. From a plant reporting requirements. These have sophisticated monitoring for
owner perspective, these times of reporting requirements can be the mechanical systems in the wind
adverse conditions are also the most arduous and costly given the remote turbines themselves. The problem is
profitable to produce energy creating nature of many renewable energy this philosophy has not commonly
an additional incentive to keep plant sites. There are many elements been extended to the balance of the
online. required in a successful asset plant and electrical infrastructure
management strategy, but online needed to deliver generated energy
These key points above have many condition monitoring is starting to to the grid and more specifically
owners and operators of renewable become the gold standard. Online net metering interconnect where
energy sites hyper focused on condition monitoring provides the revenue is realized. Typically, the plant
maintaining uptime and providing information needed meeting reporting boundary is where the revenue meter
highly reliable energy to the grid. requirements as well as proactively installed on the high voltage bushings

Photo: Dynamic Ratings

 Transformer Technology February 2024 69

Issue 34

Figure 1: Typical Wind Plant Layout [2]

Plant Boundary

Sub-Group 2A Sub-Group 2B Sub-Group 2C

Plant Boundary

Plant Boundary
Group 2
Substation

Energy Storage
Sub-Group 1A
Group 1

Plant A

Low mode

Transformer
High mode

Sub-Group 1B

Revenue
Plant Boundary Meter Plant Boundary

Off Taker

of plant Generator Step Up (GSU)

transformer [2] as shown in Figure 1.
If the feeder circuit breakers or GSU
transformers fail unexpectantly, the
result can be millions of dollars of loss
revenue from a single outage.

Today’s online monitors are capable

of monitoring the condition of
circuit breakers, switchgear and
GSU transformers from a common
platform. This includes the monitoring
of electrical, mechanical and insulation
systems [3]. This capability allows for
needed standardization within a single
plant and a common look and feel for
plant operations. The benefits of
condition monitoring extend beyond
just detecting degraded performance
and risk mitigation. The monitors
themselves can simplify PRC
reporting for battery systems and
circuit breakers alike by automating
the process and eliminating routine
inspection requirements. This helps
owners reduce their operation and
maintenance (O&M) budgets to further
70 POWER ASSET
MONITORING

support the deployment of monitoring implementing substation design challenges in project management,
technology system wide. principles to have full redundancy and commissioning that must not be
to eliminate single points of failure. overlooked. Even short outages can
Another challenge that extends This has not commonly been done cause significant delays in restarting
beyond immediate financial returns in the industry because often the an entire feeder of connected turbines
of improved reliability and reduced original owner during construction because of various mechanical and
O&M budgets is the availability of and development phase is different electrical issues associated with
replacement assets in the event than long term owner/operator and restarting turbines.
a problem arises, or when failure there was no total cost of ownership
does occur. Extending the life of considerations during construction. The best solution is to have a
an asset and getting early warning This makes continuous online substation design with high
of developing issues is crucial in condition monitoring a far easier redundancy. Substations utilizing
navigating transformer supply first step to provide a level of risk a breaker and a half scheme are
chain environments. Large power mitigation while still providing long ideal for installing HV circuit
transformers are commonly available term benefits. breaker monitoring. This bus
at five (5) year lead times with very configuration allows all breakers
limited availability of spares [4]. Much Once a renewable owner/operator to be fully commissioned with
has been written about transformer decides to move forward with a monitoring equipment without
supply chains in the last few years, balance of plant asset management taking an outage.
but this is very large and complex strategy, the same driving forces
issue to resolve. It is important that creating the need to implement Since it is impossible to switch all
all renewable plant owners and a monitoring system become feeders to adjacent bus because
operators have a resiliency plan in challenges to overcome in the of available fault current, it is more
place for these long lead time items. implementation. Large wind farms to take outage in original bus
can only incur short outage windows configuration. Often the delays in
Many utilities will carry their own and associated loss revenue to restarting turbines and complications
inventory of spare transformers, but install monitoring equipment. that arise from trying to switch
Photo: Dynamic Ratings

this practice is not common among The reason for this is the loss revenue feeders individually undermine efforts
renewable energy owners except can destroy the return on investment to maximize revenue output by
on the lower MVA distribution class of monitoring if outage is extended segmenting buses. Since the entire
transformers. Another approach is too long. This creates certain bus is being taken down, the breaker
Transformer Technology February 2024 71

Issue 34

monitor commissioning should grounding and safety work practices uptime to deliver reliable power,
be coordinated with installation of must all be cleared defined so that maintain grid stability and maximize
transformer bushing monitoring that work can begin immediately after generation revenue. Asset monitoring
also requires an unavoidable outage outage is taken because time truly is of electrical equipment is a critical
as part of installation process. money in this case. part of that strategy and working with
an experienced partner to deliver on
In order to minimize outage windows Renewable Energy is becoming a that solution can have a far greater
and the impacts to revenue it is more prevalent part of the energy impact on the bottom line than the
important to have an effective project resources for the bulk energy initial first cost than the monitor itself.
management team. Project teams need system. This is driving the need to
to work closely together to make sure maximize uptime to deliver reliable Asset monitoring of electrical
all the appropriate approvals and risks power, maintain grid stability and equipment is a critical part of that
are understood when performing pre- maximize generation revenue. strategy, and working with an
outage work. This includes completing experienced partner to deliver
as much work as possible during pre- Renewable Energy is becoming a on that solution can have a far
outage work dates. Cabinets should more prevalent part of the energy greater impact on the bottom line
be hung and conduit run with care resources for the bulk energy system. than the initial first cost than the
in hopes that monitoring will soon This is driving the need to maximize monitor itself.
be there. To further expedite the
time it takes to install sensors, such
as bushing & temperature sensors, References
many sites are preferring armored [1] https://www.nerc.com/pa/RAPA/ra/Reliability%20Assessments%20DL/NERC_LTRA_2023.pdf
cable in leu of traditional conduit runs. [2] https://www.nerc.com/pa/RAPA/gads/GADS_Wind_DRI_DL/2023_GADS_Wind_DRI.pdf
Miscommunication at this stage can [3] https://info.dynamicratings.com/improving-reliability-of-circuit-breakers-white-paper
be very costly if the commissioning
[4] https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-23-106180
team is intending to complete work that
the site manager denies because of [5] https://www.pjm.com/-/media/planning/plan-standards/private-peco/peco-transmission-bus-
previously uncommunicated concerns. configuration-design-philosophy.ashx?la=en
Before outage work begins, proper
72 PERSPECTIVES

A successful transition to green energy

emphasizes transformer maintenance
and reliability

Transformer maintenance and reliability play a transformers continue to function efficiently

critical role in the shift toward green energy for and safely.
several reasons. First green energy sources like
solar and wind can be intermittent, and their
output can fluctuate due to weather conditions.
To ensure grid stability, transformers must be
highly reliable and capable of withstanding To ensure grid stability, transformers must be
varying loads and voltage levels. Regular highly reliable and capable of withstanding
maintenance checks and preventative measures varying loads and voltage levels.
are essential to ensure transformers remain
dependable. Energy storage integration is another Aging infrastructure is a well-known issue in the
consideration. Battery energy storage systems power sector, and transformers are a part of this
(BESS) are becoming essential components of aging infrastructure. As the demand for green
green energy systems. They play a critical role in energy grows, these older transformers may need
smoothing out intermittent renewable generation. refurbishment or replacement to ensure they can
Well maintained transformers are needed to handle the increased demands and integration of
connect these energy storage systems to the grid renewable sources.
safely and efficiently.
The push for energy efficiency and grid resilience
In the context of Distributed Energy Resources is driving innovation in transformer technology.
(DER), distribution transformers at the local level Smart transformers equipped with monitoring
must be reliable to handle power flows from and control capabilities are being developed to
small-scale renewable sources like rooftop solar optimize power flow, reduce losses, and respond
panels. Regular maintenance ensures that these to changes in grid conditions.

Photo: Shutterstock
Transformer Technology February 2024 73

Issue 34

Author:
Jon Bucciarelli
President of
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are SDMyers, LLC
becoming essential components of green energy
systems, and well-maintained transformers are
needed to connect these energy storage systems
to the grid safely and efficiently.

With a focus on green energy, there's also a

growing emphasis on the environmental impact
of transformers. For example, addressing oil
leaks or upgrading to eco-friendly insulating
fluids like natural esters can reduce the risk of
environmental contamination. In some cases,
transformer life can be extended through
refurbishment and retrofitting, reducing the
need for new manufacturing, which can have
environmental benefits. Proper maintenance
practices can help maximize the lifespan of
transformers.

Transformer maintenance can include measures

to extend the reliable life of the transformer
or improve efficiency, such as cleaning cooling
systems, oil reclamation, moisture reduction,
leak repairs, and upgrading insulation. Higher
transformer efficiency means less energy loss
during power transmission, which is especially
important when transmitting renewable energy Jon Bucciarelli is President of SDMyers, LLC, an
over long distances. electric reliability company specializing in transformer
maintenance, fluid testing, field service, fleet reliability,
Reliable transformers are crucial for the safety of
and training. In addition to being a company focused on
the grid and its operators. Proper maintenance
practices ensure that transformers operate transformer life-extension services, it is a community-
safely, reducing the risk of accidents or outages aligned company focused on advocating for its
that could disrupt green energy generation and customers while building a “Good Place” — a common
distribution. attitude governed by Biblical principles and values.
Before joining SDMyers, Jon spent 11 years at
General Motors Corporation, holding a variety of
leadership positions. He eventually led the Industrial
Smart transformers equipped with monitoring Engineer group and was a New Car Launch Manager
and control capabilities are being developed to before completing his time at GM as the Director of
optimize power flow, reduce losses, and respond Engineering at the Parma Metal Center.
to changes in grid conditions, driven by the push Jon focused on his passions for engineering and
for energy efficiency and grid resilience.
education by creating a School of Engineering at

Remember, transformer maintenance and Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (CVCA). He then
reliability are integral to the safety and success of took on a startup operation as the VP of Operations
the shift toward green energy. They ensure grid that used algae as a plastic extrusion supplement. He
stability, facilitate the integration of renewable was responsible for setting up the extrusion facility and
sources and energy storage, and contribute to the manufacturing harvesters to procure algae from catfish
overall efficiency and sustainability of the energy
farms in America and lakes in China.
infrastructure. As the energy landscape continues
to evolve, maintaining and enhancing the reliability Jon holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from
of transformers will remain a key priority for The University of Akron and an MS in Operations
utilities and grid operators. Management from Kettering University.
74 PHOTOVOLTAIC
POWER GENERATION

Fault Detection in MPPT Systems Using

Principal Component Analysis (PCA):
Enhancing Reliability and Efficiency
in Photovoltaic Power Generation
by Hayder Dakhil Atiyah
and Fatma Ben Salem In the contemporary landscape
of renewable energy, photovoltaic
(PV) systems have emerged as
a cornerstone technology. The
increasing reliance on solar energy
underscores the need for optimizing
the efficiency and reliability of these
systems. Central to this optimization is
the effectiveness of Maximum Power
Point Tracking (MPPT) systems.
MPPT systems are critical in ensuring
that PV installations operate at their
optimal efficiency, thereby maximizing
energy output and enhancing overall
system performance. However,
the complexity of PV systems,
coupled with their exposure to

Photo: Shutterstock
Transformer Technology February 2024 75

Issue 34

variable environmental conditions, PCA, a statistical technique renowned

makes them susceptible to a for its efficacy in reducing data
range of operational faults. These dimensionality and extracting
faults can significantly impede the meaningful patterns, offers a robust
performance and longevity of solar framework for analyzing the multi-
installations, posing a challenge faceted data generated by PV
for sustainable energy solutions. systems. By transforming the high-
The traditional approaches to fault dimensional operational data into a
detection in PV systems often hinge set of linearly uncorrelated variables
on monitoring specific parameters, known as principal components,
such as current and voltage outputs. PCA facilitates a more nuanced
However, these methods can fall understanding of system behavior.
short in the face of complex, multi- This capability is particularly
dimensional faults, especially advantageous in identifying subtle, Hayder Dakhil Atiyah received the B. E. de-
under fluctuating environmental yet critical, deviations that signify gree in Electrical power from Basra Techni-
conditions. Consequently, there is potential faults. The application of cal College (Iraq) in 2006 and pursuing M.
a growing impetus for developing PCA in this domain is not just about Tech degree in Power Systems from Acharya
more sophisticated, data-driven fault enhancing fault detection; it is about Nagarjuna University, Guntur, Andhrapradesh
detection techniques capable of redefining it. By harnessing the state, India. He is preparing a PhD in electri-
navigating the intricate dynamics of power of PCA, it becomes possible to cal power systems at Sfax university.
PV systems. It is in this context that preemptively identify faults, paving the Department electrical power at National School of

Principal Component Analysis (PCA) way for proactive maintenance and Engineering of Sfax, Tunisia, [email protected]

emerges as a promising solution. intervention strategies.

Fatma Ben Salem was born in Sfax, Tunisia,

in 1978. She received the BS, the Master's,
the PhD, and the HCR degrees in 2002, 2003,
2010, and 2015, respectively, all in electrical
engineering from the National Engineering
School of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia.
She is a professor of electrical engineering
at the High Institute of Industrial Manage-
ment of Sfax, Tunisia. She is a member of
the Control and Energy Management Labora-
tory (CEMLab) of the University of Sfax. She
is an IEEE member. Her main research inter-
ests cover several aspects related to the ad-
vanced control and the diagnostic of electric
machine drives and generators involved in
automotive, renewable energy systems, and
Smart Grid technologies.
Department of Electrical Engineering, Prince Sat-
tam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj 16273, Saudi
Arabia [email protected]
76 PHOTOVOLTAIC
POWER GENERATION

Literature Reviews

Recent advancements in fault

detection in photovoltaic (PV)
systems have garnered significant
attention, primarily due to the
increasing reliance on solar energy.
This literature review examines
Moreover, the integration of PCA various methodologies and
into MPPT systems aligns with the innovations in this field, focusing on
broader narrative of smart, data- approaches like neural networks, PCA,
centric solutions in renewable energy and machine learning techniques.
technologies. The push towards
smarter energy systems is not
merely a technological aspiration; it
is a requisite for the sustainable and
1. Enhanced Neural Network
and PCA Methods:
that integrating these processes can
improve overall system reliability and
performance.
efficient harnessing of renewable Rujittika Mungmunpuntipantip
resources. In solar power generation,
where the stakes are as much about
environmental stewardship as they
(2023) in "Enhanced Neural Network
Method-Based Multiscale PCA
for Fault Diagnosis" proposes an
3. Real-Time Fault Detection
Using Multi-Sensor Data:

are about energy efficiency, the role of innovative approach combining Bakdi et al. (2021) explore real-time
intelligent fault detection mechanisms neural networks with multiscale PCA fault detection under MPPT using
cannot be overstated. This paper for fault diagnosis in grid-connected PMU and high-frequency multi-
delves into the application of PCA PV systems. This study is pivotal sensor data through an online PCA-
for fault detection in MPPT systems in showcasing the integration of KDE-based method. This approach,
within PV installations. It explores the advanced data analysis techniques utilizing multivariate KL divergence,
theoretical underpinnings of PCA and with neural network methodologies underscores the importance of
its compatibility with the operational to enhance diagnostic accuracy and real-time data processing and the
dynamics of MPPT systems. Through efficiency in PV systems. potential of using multiple sensors to
a blend of simulated scenarios enhance fault detection accuracy in
and empirical data analysis, this
study demonstrates how PCA can 2. Switched Model-Based Fault
Detection:
PV systems.

effectively identify and isolate faults

in MPPT systems. The findings of this
research not only contribute to the
Ayyoub et al. (2022) in their work
on simultaneous switched model-
4. Machine Learning
Techniques:

enhancement of PV system reliability based fault detection and MPPT Attouri et al. (2020) delve into
but also underscore the potential of for PV systems offer a unique machine learning techniques for
Photo: Shutterstock

advanced data analysis techniques perspective. They emphasize the fault detection in PV systems. Their
in revolutionizing renewable energy simultaneous implementation of research contributes to the growing
technologies. fault detection and MPPT, suggesting body of literature that leverages
Transformer Technology February 2024 77

Issue 34

By harnessing the power of PCA, it becomes

possible to preemptively identify faults,
paving the way for proactive maintenance and
intervention strategies.

The push towards smarter energy systems is not

merely a technological aspiration; it is a requisite
for the sustainable and efficient harnessing of
renewable resources.

9. Automatic Observation and

Detection Technologies:

Sachin Thakur et al. (2023) in

"Automatic Observation and Detection
machine learning algorithms, application of PCA in conjunction with of Faults for Solar Photovoltaic
demonstrating the effectiveness neural networks for fault detection in Systems" explore multilevel inverter
of these techniques in identifying electrical systems. topology in PV systems. Their focus
anomalies within PV systems. on automation and fault detection

5. Quality-Related Fault
Detection:
7. Statistical Process
Monitoring Techniques:
technologies aligns with the growing
trend towards more intelligent and
autonomous PV system management.
Mohammed Ziyan Sheriff et al.

10.
Wenxiao Gao et al. (2020) introduce (2019) investigate fault detection Automatic Observation
a modified principal component using statistical process monitoring and Detection of Faults for
regression method for quality-related techniques. Their approach, focusing Solar Photovoltaic Systems with
fault detection. Although not directly on single and interval-valued data, Multilevel Inverter Topology
focused on PV systems, this work can offer a statistical perspective
contributes to the understanding relevant to fault detection in PV These studies collectively signify a shift
of PCA applications in fault systems. towards more sophisticated, data-driven
detection, offering insights that approaches in fault detection within
could be translatable to PV system
diagnostics. 8. Fault Detection Apparatus
and Methodologies:
PV systems. The integration of neural
networks, PCA, and machine learning
methods demonstrates a notable

6. Circuit Breaker Fault

Diagnosis:
Park Ki Ju and Park Sae Hee (2020)
contribute to the field with their
development of an apparatus and
trend towards harnessing advanced
computational techniques to enhance
the reliability and efficiency of solar
The work by Hao Feng et al. (2020) method for detecting faults in PV power generation. This body of work
on PCA-BPNN-based circuit breaker systems. Such innovations highlight provides a foundation for future research
fault diagnosis method, while not the ongoing efforts to create practical aimed at developing more resilient,
directly related to PV systems, solutions for PV system monitoring efficient, and intelligent PV systems in
provides valuable insights into the and maintenance. the realm of renewable energy.
78 PHOTOVOLTAIC
POWER GENERATION

Methodology the number of observations and mm multidimensional operational

is the number of variables (such as data to facilitate the identification
This research adopts a systematic voltage, current, temperature). The of deviations indicative of faults
approach to improve fault detection standardized data matrix is given by in MPPT systems. In your paper,
in photovoltaic (PV) systems by XstdXstd. you can elaborate on how the
leveraging Principal Component principal components derived from
Analysis (PCA). The methodology The PCA transformation can be YY are used to detect faults in
is meticulously designed to expressed as: MPPT systems, emphasizing the
encompass data acquisition, Y=Xstd×PY=Xstd×P reduction of dimensionality and the
preprocessing, feature extraction, enhancement of pattern recognition
PCA implementation, and validation Where: capability.be free of particulates,
stages to ensure the reliability and
applicability of the findings.
•YY is the matrix of principal sediment, or observable water
components. droplets.
•PP is the matrix of principal
To create an equation that would component coefficients, also Data Acquisition
be relevant for a paper on "Fault known as the loading matrix, which
Detection in MPPT (Maximum Power is derived from the eigenvectors of A comprehensive dataset
Point Tracking) Systems Using the covariance matrix of XstdXstd. comprising operational parameters
Principal Component Analysis (PCA)," from diverse PV systems was
we can focus on the application of In the context of fault detection: compiled. This dataset shown in
PCA in the context of identifying
faults in PV systems. The core of PCA
• The rows of YY represent the table 1 includes voltage, current,
observations in the new principal temperature, and irradiance data
is the transformation of the original component space. sampled at high-resolution intervals
data into a set of linearly uncorrelated
variables called principal components.
• By examining the distances of across various environmental
these observations from the origin conditions and system
Here’s a fundamental equation in the PCA space, anomalies configurations. Special attention
representing the PCA transformation: (potential faults) can be identified. was paid to capturing data from
instances with known faults to enrich
Let XX be the original data matrix with This equation encapsulates the the dataset's potential for revealing
dimensions n×mn×m, where nn is essence of PCA in transforming fault-related patterns.

Parameter Description Measurement Tool Data Points

Voltage Output (V) Electrical voltage output of the PV modules. Multimeter Every 1 minute

Current Output (I) Electrical current output of the PV modules. Multimeter Every 1 minute

Solar Irradiance (W/m²) The power per unit area received from the Sun. Pyranometer Every 1 minute

Ambient Temperature (°C) Temperature of the surrounding environment. Thermocouple Every 5 minutes

Module Temperature (°C) Surface temperature of the PV modules. Infrared Sensor Every 5 minutes

Efficiency (%) Conversion efficiency of the PV system. Computed from V and I Hourly

Capacity Factor (%) Ratio of actual output over a period to the maximum possible. Computed from V and I Daily

Performance Ratio (%) Performance compared to the ideal conditions. Computed from V and I Daily

Fault Events Record of any operational faults and maintenance. Maintenance Logs As events occur

System Downtime (hrs) Duration when the system is not operational. System Logs As events occur

Table 1: Summary of Photovoltaic System Data Acquisition Parameters

Data Preprocessing
Voltage (V) Current (A) Temperature (°C) Irradiance (W/m^2) The raw data underwent a rigorous
preprocessing routine, including
0 5.1 1.2 25 1000
normalization to standardize the
1 5.3 1.1 26 950 scale of different measurements,
outlier detection and removal to
2 5.0 1.3 27 1100
ensure data quality, and smoothing to
3 5.2 1.2 28 1050 mitigate transient noise. This phase
was critical in preparing the data
Photo: Shutterstock

4 4.9 1.0 29 1000

for effective PCA application and
ensuring the subsequent analysis's
Table 2 fidelity.
Transformer Technology February 2024 79

Issue 34

Feature Extraction

These studies collectively signify a shift towards Key operational features were
more sophisticated, data-driven approaches in fault extracted based on their relevance to
detection within PV systems. system performance and historical
fault records. These features included,
but were not limited to, derivatives
of power output, fluctuation indices,
and statistical descriptors, all of
which were computed to provide a
comprehensive feature set for PCA.

Figure 1

Figure 2

PCA Implementation

PCA was employed to reduce the

dimensionality of the feature space,
facilitating the identification of the most
informative features - the principal
components. These components
Figure 3 served as a condensed representation
of the data, capturing the most
significant variance and patterns
associated with fault conditions.
80 PHOTOVOLTAIC
POWER GENERATION

Figure 4

Fault Detection Algorithm Figure 5

A fault detection algorithm was

developed, utilizing the principal
components as inputs. This algorithm
was designed to distinguish between
normal operation and fault states,
employing a threshold-based
mechanism to flag potential faults. This study presents a groundbreaking PCA-based
The thresholds were iteratively refined fault detection framework for MPPT systems in
to balance sensitivity and specificity, PV installations, demonstrating enhanced efficiency
thereby reducing the incidence of and reliability.
false positives.

1) import numpy as np 13) # Standardize the data 26) plt.scatter(pc1, pc2, color='blue',
label='Normal' if i == 0 else "")
2) import matplotlib.pyplot as plt 14) df_standardized = (df - df.mean())
/ df.std() 27) else:
3) from sklearn.decomposition
import PCA 15) # Apply PCA 28) plt.scatter(pc1, pc2, color='red',
label='Fault' if i == 5 else "")
4) # Example data (including normal 16) pca = PCA(n_components=2)
and fault states) 29) plt.title('PCA-Based Fault
17) principalComponents = pca.fit_
Detection in PV System')
5) data = { transform(df_standardized
30) plt.xlabel('Principal Component 1')
6) 'Voltage': [5.1, 5.3, 5.0, 5.2, 4.9, 4.7, 18) # Fault Detection Algorithm
4.8, 4.6], # Last 3 are fault states 31) plt.ylabel('Principal Component 2')
19) # Setting a threshold for fault
7) 'Current': [1.2, 1.1, 1.3, 1.2, 1.0, 0.7, detection (this is a simplified 32) plt.axhline(y=threshold,
0.8, 0.6], # Last 3 are fault states example) color='green', linestyle='--')

8) 'Temperature': [25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 20) threshold = 1.5 33) plt.axhline(y=-threshold,
30, 31, 32] # Last 3 are fault color='green', linestyle='--')
21) faults = np.linalg.
states norm(principalComponents, 34) plt.axvline(x=threshold,
9) } axis=1) > threshold color='green', linestyle='--')
22) # Plotting 35) plt.axvline(x=-threshold,
10) labels = ['Normal', 'Normal',
color='green', linestyle='--')
'Normal', 'Normal', 'Normal', 'Fault', 23) plt.figure(figsize=(10, 6))
'Fault', 'Fault'] 36) plt.legend()
Photo: Shutterstock

24) for i, (pc1, pc2) in

11) # Convert to DataFrame enumerate(principalComponents): 37) plt.grid(True)
12) df = pd.DataFrame(data) 25) if labels[i] == 'Normal': 38) plt.show()
Transformer Technology February 2024 81

Issue 34

References
[1] Rujittika, Mungmunpuntipantip. undefined (2020). doi: 10.1109/
"Enhanced Neural Network SSD49366.2020.9364094
Method-Based Multiscale PCA for [6] Wenxiao, Gao., Aihua, Zhang.,
Fault Diagnosis: Application to Grid- Zhongdang, Yu. "A Modified
Connected PV Systems." Signals, Principal Component Regression
undefined (2023). doi: 10.3390/ Method for Quality-related
signals4020020 Fault Detection." undefined
Validation [2] Ayyoub, Ait, Ladel., Rachid, Outbib., (2020). doi: 10.1109/
Abdellah, Benzaouia., Mustapha, DDCLS49620.2020.9275140
The PCA-based fault detection Ouladsine. "Simultaneous switched [7] Hao, Feng., Wen, Zhigang., Guo,
framework was validated using model-based fault detection and Shuxiang., Bai, Yongxiang., Ji,
a twofold strategy: first, through MPPT for photovoltaic systems." Hong., Hai, Wei., Wang, Fuhe.,
simulated data reflecting a range undefined (2022). doi: 10.1109/ Wang, Xiaoguang., Wu, Riheng.,
of fault scenarios, and second, via ICSC57768.2022.9993833 Gao, Bo., Zou, Dayun., Yuan, Feifei.
real-time data from operational PV [3] Azzeddine, Bakdi., Wahiba, "PCA-BPNN-based circuit breaker
systems. The validation process Bounoua., Amar, Guichi., Saad, fault diagnosis method."
involved assessing the framework's Mekhilef., Saad, Mekhilef. "Real- undefined (2020).
accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 time fault detection in PV systems [8] Mohammed, Ziyan, Sheriff.,
score, comparing it against existing under MPPT using PMU and Nour, Basha., Muhammad,
fault detection methods to establish high-frequency multi-sensor data Nazmul, Karim., Hazem, Nounou.,
its superiority shown in fig 5. through online PCA-KDE-based Mohamed, Nounou. "Fault
multivariate KL divergence." Detection of Single and Interval
Conclusion International Journal of Electrical Valued Data Using Statistical
Power & Energy Systems, Process Monitoring Techniques."
In conclusion, this study presents undefined (2021). doi: 10.1016/J. undefined (2019). doi: 10.5772/
a groundbreaking PCA-based IJEPES.2020.106457 INTECHOPEN.88217
fault detection framework for [4] Simultaneous switched model- [9] Park, Ki, Ju., Park, Sae, Hee.
MPPT systems in PV installations, based fault detection and MPPT "Apparatus and method for
demonstrating enhanced efficiency for photovoltaic systems." detecting fault of photovoltaic
and reliability. Validated through undefined (2022). doi: 10.1109/ system." undefined (2020).
comprehensive simulations and icsc57768.2022.9993833 [10] Sachin, Thakur., Kamal, Sharma.,
real-world data, the approach [5] Khadija, Attouri., Mansour, Hajji., Akhilesh, Gupta. "Automatic
effectively identifies operational Majdi, Mansouri., Mohamed-Faouzi, Observation and Detection of Faults
anomalies, reducing false positives Harkat., Abdelmalek, Kouadri., for Solar Photovoltaic Systems
and optimizing maintenance. This Hazem, Nounou., Mohamed, with Multilevel Inverter Topology."
research significantly contributes to Nounou. "Fault detection in undefined (2023). doi: 10.1109/
advancing sustainable solar energy photovoltaic systems using DELCON57910.2023.10127357
technologies. machine learning technique."
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