Smart transformer: a revolutionary paradigm toward sustainable power grids

Abstract

Electrical power grids are evolving technologically from different perspectives, specifically, aiming to guarantee the sustainability of the power grid itself, the introduction of new and emerging technologies for the production and storage of energy, advanced communication systems, as well as higher levels of power quality for all sectors of activity (from production to consumption). Particularly, with special focus over the last two decades, power grids are undergoing a depth transformation, moving from a centralized and unidirectional architecture to a decentralized and bidirectional architecture, mainly due to the massive incorporation of new electrical engineering technologies. This change also presents an important aspect for the entire power grid: the possibility of energy storage and management according to the real-time needs. In this context, within the scope of this paper, the sustainability of power grids is considered, focusing on the new paradigms offered by the smart transformer and hybrid AC/DC power grids, including all the added value that can be established in terms of power management. Encompassed in a smart transformer context, the contextualization of the conceivable arrangements of solid-state transformers, and the various configurations of smart hybrid transformers, are evaluated from the point of view of offering advantages of improved efficiency and power quality. In addition to a theoretical introductory context, the paper presents computational validations and a comparison regarding the various configurations that can be obtained.