Introduction: The unit could be deployed anywhere in an LV network, either permanently, or as a portable unit used in emergency cases or where customer problems have suddenly developed while longer term solutions are evaluated. In the future a software upgrade could be produced so the low voltage regulator can include a harmonic suppression functionality.

Objectives: The distribution network controlled using transformers and tap-changing has proven reliable, however controllability of voltage is limited at best and faces the greatest challenge in remote and rural areas.

An active series voltage regulator to be developed by Gendrive Ltd (supported by EA Technology) aims to provide a more stable and smarter local supply. The unit proposed will in effect prevent or at worst delay the cost of reinforcing problematic distribution circuits.

• The unit would be able to service feeders carrying up to 500 Amps, and provide voltage stabilisation capacity up to +/-30 volts

• Fluctuation in voltage amplitude on the distribution-side will be de-coupled from the load-side, so it can be regulated whenever the distribution voltage varies outside of normal operating limits

• DG on the customer side will suffer fewer loss-of-mains trips whenever voltage rises above the permitted voltage range, as the effective network voltage (load-side) can be reduced

• Heavy load will not cause excessive voltage drop as the voltage regulator will act to increase the load /consumer voltage.