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Theoretically optimal location of a distribution substation

Former Community Member
Former Community Member
Hello, 
I have the following problem with the preliminary design stage of a residential area:

The software I use can calculate a theoretically optimal location of a distribution substation for low-voltage networks. This place is calculated as a "center of power demand" or "center of gravity" of electrical consumers.

If the substation locates in this optimal place, we can design 0.4kV distribution feeders with a minimum length and power losses in low-voltage feeders are minimal. 

I understand it’s almost impossible to put it exactly there, and I consider some sites nearby. But the architect believes that this is unacceptable in terms of landscape design and wants to place the substation in a far corner.

Who should be the arbiter in this situation?  DNO representative takes a neutral position.  Local authorities are completely on architect side, they do not care that long power cables will heat the atmosphere for many years to come.

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  • Former Community Member
    0 Former Community Member
    Well, to follow an optimum design, you would be losing a dwelling - which usually has significant monetary value, so you can understand why the architect working for the developer wants the substation on the least valuable bit of land on the plot.


    Money talks, so you wont win this one, however:


    1 - From your design, why are you feeding every plot individually with each cable going back to the sub - you'll need a fuse rack of epic proportions (which costs money)


    2 - You can always mitigate the I2R losses with a slightly bigger cable - which is cheap compared to the trench costs


    Personally speaking, put in a few 3 phase feeders from the substation and "T"off for each property - two or 3 circuits would deal with the whole lot at minimal cost and optimum size to mitigate the I2R loss. Essentially let the DNO put in the sub, then get an IDNO to wire up the utility on site to each dwelling.


    What is your estate street lighting strategy ?


    Regards


    OMS


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  • Former Community Member
    0 Former Community Member
    Well, to follow an optimum design, you would be losing a dwelling - which usually has significant monetary value, so you can understand why the architect working for the developer wants the substation on the least valuable bit of land on the plot.


    Money talks, so you wont win this one, however:


    1 - From your design, why are you feeding every plot individually with each cable going back to the sub - you'll need a fuse rack of epic proportions (which costs money)


    2 - You can always mitigate the I2R losses with a slightly bigger cable - which is cheap compared to the trench costs


    Personally speaking, put in a few 3 phase feeders from the substation and "T"off for each property - two or 3 circuits would deal with the whole lot at minimal cost and optimum size to mitigate the I2R loss. Essentially let the DNO put in the sub, then get an IDNO to wire up the utility on site to each dwelling.


    What is your estate street lighting strategy ?


    Regards


    OMS


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