This module aims to familiarise the student with the structure and characteristics of large scale energy distribution systems. The module introduces the student to performance and control issues, including reliability, fault tolerance and cost issues.
Irish National electricity grid:
Existing interconnectivity with external networks. Statutory servicerequirements. Grid stability and controlExisting cost structures (capital investment, maintenance, and operating) andcustomer billing structure. Operating principles, pro's and cons, costs of HVDC for electrical transmission.
Electrcity grid modelling and simulation:
Use models of selected portions of the Irish grid, to study supply disruption in the event of selected network faults, generator outages, and weather events. Modify the models to study the effects of : Increased distributed generation, Change to the structure of the grid, Change in control strategies on the network,Controlled demand management by modification to customer contracts
Fuel distribution systems:
Oil and gas transmission by pipeline and by tanker. Gas distribution by pipe and by road/rail transport. Petrol/diesel/fuel oil distribution network by road. Reliability analysis of these in terms of required reserves, operating cost and service availability in event ofdisruption.
Case Studies:
Connection of new 50MW waste incinerator to existing grid; strengthening of grid, modifications to control and scheduling of existing plant, specification of reserve plant requirements.
Energy Storage:
Operation principles, pros and cons and applications of various forms of small, medium and large scale energy storage options.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 60 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |