Phantom Power, Ghost Flickers, and Haunted Grids – Power System Glitches…must be Halloween!
Halloween might be known for witches, ghosts and goblins, but the power grid also has its own set of spooky phenomena. At Blake Clough Consulting, we’re well-versed in ensuring that even these eerie occurrences are under control, helping developers of projects ranging from solar and wind to BESS and data centres maintain seamless and efficient operations. Let’s dive into the “spooky” side of the grid and how our consultancy services help dispel the ghosts in the system.
1. Phantom Power: The Hidden Energy Drain
Much like a vampire, phantom power quietly drains electricity from devices even when they appear to be off. This same concept can sneak into the operational profiles of renewable energy systems if not properly managed.
How We Help: In reality, grid scale projects will not have these phantom issues, so as part of preparing Distribution and Transmission Grid Applications, we ensure that the indicated auxiliary load is properly sized to avoid additional constraints or costs on your project.
2. Ghost Flickers: When Voltage Plays Tricks
Flickering lights often conjure images of haunted houses, but in reality, they are more often caused by voltage fluctuations in the grid. This is a real concern for developers integrating renewables into the grid, especially when it comes to power quality and grid stability.
How We Help: We perform power quality and voltage stability studies for developers of solar, wind, and battery projects. These studies identify and mitigate risks associated with voltage fluctuations and harmonics, preventing the type of “ghost flickers” that could impact both residential and industrial consumers. Our Power System Studies, such as P28 compliance, ensure that new renewable connections won’t cause voltage disruptions, even in complex grid conditions.
3. Haunted Grids and EMF Mysteries
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) generated by electrical systems have long been associated with strange sensations and “hauntings.” While ghost stories might add some charm, EMFs are very real in the design of renewable energy projects.
How We Help: EMF management is critical in projects involving high voltage connections or large BESS facilities. We carry out detailed power systems studies including electromagnetic transient (EMT) analysis to ensure that renewable projects operate safely and within regulatory limits. We also help with design layouts to ensure EMF considerations are integrated early on, avoiding any “haunted grid” issues down the line.
4. Halloween Surges and the Fear of Blackouts
Halloween brings a surge in energy use from decorative lighting, which mirrors the challenges that renewables pose to the grid in terms of fluctuating demand and supply. As more renewable projects come online, these surges need to be managed to avoid potential blackouts.
How We Help: We help developers prepare for these surges with grid connection studies and curtailment analysis. By analysing grid capacity, reinforcement needs, network power flows, and potential risks, we ensure that your projects can be connected without overloading the system. This is especially critical for developers navigating non-firm connections or areas with active network management (ANM). Our services help ensure that blackouts of your project are avoided, and that developers have the confidence to proceed with their projects even under challenging grid conditions.
Power System Glitches During the Spooky Season
Whether it’s phantom power, ghostly voltage flickers, or grid surges, Blake Clough Consulting has the expertise to keep your renewable energy, data centre, and storage projects operating smoothly, even during the spookiest time of year. Our focus on detailed power systems analysis and grid connection studies ensures that developers can connect their projects efficiently, safely, and without fear of unexpected surprises.
Happy Halloween – and rest assured, with us on your side, there’s nothing to fear from the grid!