A large part of the low-voltage distribution network in Flanders is to be strengthened by the energy transition and electrification. This is the result of a study by the energy regulation authority VREG. There are ways to lessen the impact, as it sounds like citizens will be encouraged to charge their car more slowly.
On behalf of the Flemish Energy Minister Zuhal Demir (N-VA), VREG examined the expected effects of the energy transition on the low-voltage distribution network in Flanders. With more and more electric cars, heat pumps and solar panels, the grid will be subject to increasingly different loads in the future.
The current capacity is usually sufficient to cover current electricity requirements. At the highest possible demand peak, the main problems would be power quality. “These problems are usually still within the scope of the norm, but a further drop in voltage can lead to devices no longer functioning properly or even being damaged,” according to the ORDEE.
Just reinforce
In the future – “towards 2050” – the low-voltage grid will have to be strengthened in many places in order to avoid overloads. In the short term, it cannot be ruled out that the increase in solar modules will have a greater impact than the additional decrease. Inverters of solar modules can then fail during a feed-in peak.
delay
The VREG states that a series of political measures will have a reducing effect on the future network load. These measures could delay network investments somewhat. This applies, for example, to the promotion of slower charging of low-voltage electric vehicles or support for the expansion of heating networks.
cost picture?
The theoretical model in the study only fully maps the need for network reinforcements. It is not clear where, when and to what extent reinforcements will be needed. And the costs were not calculated either. Further investigations must clarify this.
Network operator Fluvius will be able to use data from digital meters and digital distribution boxes. The study continues.
Source : HLN