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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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    You really do need to think carefully about this. Yes, bigger cables reduce losses, as do shorter ones. However, these losses only occur in relation to loading. Unfortunately, this only applies to some of the transformer losses, which occur continuously at zero load. The jointing cost of service to main cables also increases with size, particularly if you use aluminum cables. What is your design voltage drop, and how often do you expect this to occur? This is the point which you are missing, maximum demand is not a continuous thing with housing, it occurs for fairly short periods, and at predictable times. Cables are best designed appropriately, considering all factors including the thermal time constants to get the most cost-effective design over the whole lifespan (100 years?).
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  • 0
    You really do need to think carefully about this. Yes, bigger cables reduce losses, as do shorter ones. However, these losses only occur in relation to loading. Unfortunately, this only applies to some of the transformer losses, which occur continuously at zero load. The jointing cost of service to main cables also increases with size, particularly if you use aluminum cables. What is your design voltage drop, and how often do you expect this to occur? This is the point which you are missing, maximum demand is not a continuous thing with housing, it occurs for fairly short periods, and at predictable times. Cables are best designed appropriately, considering all factors including the thermal time constants to get the most cost-effective design over the whole lifespan (100 years?).
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