VDE-AR-N 4110 - Technical requirements for medium-voltage connections

News & Blog Tag: # Trafostation

# Transformer station

VDE-AR-N 4110 - VDE - Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies - Regulations and standards

Tag: # Trafostation

A transformer station, also known as a transformer substation, is a central facility in the energy infrastructure that is responsible for converting electrical energy between different voltage levels. Transformer stations are needed wherever electricity has to be switched from high voltage to medium or low voltage in order to be transmitted to the end consumer. Anyone wishing to order a transformer station should consider the specific requirements of their project, as these systems have to be customised to the respective grid and project requirements.

A transformer station essentially consists of one or more transformers that convert electrical energy from a higher voltage level to a lower voltage. This is necessary because the electrical energy is transported over long distances in high voltage in order to minimise transmission losses. However, as soon as the electricity gets closer to the point of consumption, it must be transformed down to a lower voltage level so that it can be used safely in households, businesses and industries.

Transformer stations also play an important role in special applications such as solar parks. In a solar park, photovoltaic systems generate direct current, which is converted into alternating current by inverters. This alternating current must then be transformed to the appropriate voltage level by a transformer station before it can be fed into the public grid. Anyone requesting a transformer station for a solar park must ensure that the transformer station is capable of both absorbing the solar power generated and meeting the grid requirements.

In addition to converting voltage levels, transformer stations also fulfil an important protective function. They are equipped with switchgear and protective devices that monitor the current flow and can interrupt the circuit in the event of faults or overloads. This protects both the grid and the connected consumers from damage. Modern transformer stations are also equipped with intelligent switching technology that makes it possible to monitor the energy flow in real time and adapt it to the changing requirements of the grid. This is particularly important in an electricity grid that is increasingly supplied by renewable energy sources, as their feed-in is often fluctuating.

Compact substations, a special type of transformer station, offer a more compact and flexible solution for converting voltage in environments where space is at a premium. Requesting a compact station is often the best choice for use in urban areas or in remote regions where a large transformer station is not an option due to lack of space or accessibility. Compact substations offer all the essential functions of a classic transformer station, including voltage conversion and protection, but in a more compact design.

Another important aspect when selecting a transformer station is the ability to future-proof the system. With the ongoing expansion of renewable energies, particularly photovoltaics and wind power, it is important that transformer stations are flexible and adaptable. Anyone wishing to order a transformer station should ensure that it is capable of accommodating additional capacity and adapting to new technological developments. Intelligent transformer stations with digital control offer advantages here, as they enable dynamic adaptation to grid requirements and protect long-term investments.

The location of the transformer station also plays an important role. It must be positioned in such a way that the electricity can be fed into the grid efficiently and the load on the grid is minimised. In addition, the security requirements are high, especially in populated areas, where it is important that the station is well secured and protected against unauthorised access.

To summarise, the transformer station is an indispensable part of modern energy infrastructure. It ensures that electrical energy is safely and efficiently converted between different voltage levels, thus enabling a stable and reliable power supply. Anyone wishing to order a transformer station or enquire about a compact station should ensure that the system is planned in detail and customised to the specific project requirements in order to ensure the long-term efficiency and security of the energy supply. Modern transformer stations with intelligent technology make a decisive contribution to grid stability and the integration of renewable energies and are a key to a sustainable energy supply.

Today, 20 January 2025