2019

A selection of R&D projects from the 2015–2019 programme period

Sustainable system Innovative Smart development technology grids Planning an optimal energy 20 per cent faster, 20 per cent Preparing the power system

Photo: Thomas Negård system for our future safer, 20 per cent cheaper for a more complex future A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Six years ago, Statnett launched the slogan “The future is electric”. Now, we are seeing the contours of a fully electric society.

new solutions, and the efforts of research and development environments become a driving force.

In January 2019, the Research Council of Norway presented a report that concluded that energy research has created value in the amount of NOK 16 billion for Norway since 2008. The same report estimates the potential value creation at NOK 100 billion in the years to come. Our experiences are in line with this, and in the years to come, we believe that R&D efforts will be even more important.

Research and development should contribute to establishing a power system that will facilitate the reduction of climate emissions, increase value creation and Fighting against maintain security of supply. R&D should several world records Much has happened since the EU adopted also result in major cost-savings for on Ålvik Mountain the Renewable Energy Directive and the society, so as to ensure that the bill for this 19 EU 20-20-20 climate targets in December transformation of the energy system stays 2008. But it is from today and until 2030 as low as possible, while also developing and on until 2050, that the development new and improved HSE solutions. and changes in society and the power Improved framework TABLE OF CONTENTS system will really speed up. As a consequence, Statnett is increasing for greener its R&D efforts by 30 per cent in the period interventions 17 23 2 A message from the CEO, Auke Lont In the future, we expect major changes in 2020 to 2023. Our efforts will be directed 4 Title: R&D for a fully electrified Norway consumption and production patterns. The towards three key development trends. We Alternative to steel in the 12 Innovative technology proportion of renewable energy is growing, will focus on data-driven decision support pylons of the future Digital substation – from substation bus to driven by sharply falling costs, while the and automated decision-making that process bus 16 electrification is driven by new demands, must happen in real time. We will focus on Aluminium and composite as an alternative to steel in the pylons of the future increased climate risk and higher carbon developing digital, secure and cost-effective The construction 19 Up against several world records on Ålvik prices. We will also be affected by what is facilities. And we will focus on cooperation site of the future Mountain happening in the countries around us. In the in the energy system across national is electric 23 Sustainable system development 28 New framework for greener interventions coming years, for example, we will feel the borders, internally in Norway, and between effects of nuclear power plants being shut the power sector and other parts of society. in construction work 26 Alternatives to expanding the power grid down in Sweden and the continuing phase- Because as the UN has asserted, the – a more efficient power system out of coal power in Denmark, while the average temperature is already rising. If 28 The construction site of the future is electric share of wind power production increases, we are to stop this trend, there must be a 32 Researching the risks and costs of the 38 40 largest power outages both in our neighbouring countries and in collective effort. Norway. Using artificial Frequent 33 Smart grids intelligence to measurements The drones of the future will manage on In this magazine, you can read more about their own Statnett aims to facilitate this development, our new focus areas and learn about some predict imbalance provide invaluable 36 Analyses data from drones with artificial and we are now preparing for how all of of our results from the last period. Enjoy! in the grid information intelligence this will lead to new ways of planning, 38 Using artificial intelligence to predict dimensioning, maintaining and operating imbalance in the grid 40 Frequent measurements provide the power system. These are changes invaluable information about the state of that are only possible if we have the will the power system and the ability to innovate and to create Kind regards, Auke

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“According to the IPCC, we must cut our be working continuously to generate the Cooperation with external research partners carbon emissions by 45 per cent by 2030 know-how required to meet this challenge. is another important aspect of our R&D R&D for a fully and reduce them to zero by 2050 to meet “We are looking forward to working towards work. This is crucial for producing good climate targets. We are in the middle of a the ambitious goal of the full electrification results. Furthermore, we need to identify climate crisis. Studies have shown that the of Norway. Such a goal can be realised good Nordic projects because TSOs full electrification of mainland Norway is in many different ways, and it raises a have a lot to gain from collaborating electrified possible, and by doing so we will contribute number of interesting and exciting issues more closely across borders,” she states. towards reaching the target in 2050 as long for us to address,” acknowledges Berlijn. In Norway we have good R&D funding as all production is from renewable energy She continues: “What kind of market mechanisms, which is not the case in Norway sources. Our perspective over the next four mechanisms would be appropriate in other countries, and therefore we also years will be to stimulate and encourage such a scenario? How do we ensure good need to work with Nordic funding schemes Norwegian research environments to maintenance, protection and control of the and good innovation models. The kind of Statnett is currently defining contribute to realising this vision,” says power system of the future? What kind product development that we need is not Sonja Monica Berlijn, R&D Director at of infrastructure and (digital) technologies the kind that is typically provided by small new R&D programmes and their Statnett. are needed? What remains to be done to entrepreneurial environments, because contents for the next four-year achieve this goal? How do we balance it often requires larger, more established R&D period. The main objective New technology local environmental considerations with businesses to extract the value. Therefore, is to stimulate and encourage In order for Norway to be fully electrified, global climate goals, and where should new it is important to work with the ‘golden new technologies, solutions, know-how consumption be located?” triangle’ of innovation, with suppliers, innovation in the realisation of a and innovations will be needed. In addition, universities and ourselves combined in fully electrified Norway. digitalisation will be an essential part of Massive savings for Norway one project. There have already been a the development. Statnett wants to follow The systematic focus on research in number of occasions where this has been Photo: Morten Brakestad up on these perspectives in the coming Norway in recent years has resulted in successful. programme period of 2020–2023,” reports a large number of potential cost-saving Berlijn. Three new R&D programmes technologies, methods and solutions. Diversity is needed. To be able to reach our have been highlighted, with the working Statnett R&D has estimated that the ambitious goals it is not only important to titles “Data-driven decision support in research conducted over the past 20 years work together, but we also need to work real time”, “Digital, safe and cost-effective has delivered savings of at least NOK 10 on diversity. It is well known that this fosters infrastructure” and “Co-operation in the billion. “This shows that R&D is a strategic innovation. We also need a balanced future energy system”. In addition, we will tool and that the way we organise our R&D portfolio. We must utilise both long-term is working. Cost savings, HSE, security and short-term efforts, and we need and digitalisation, generation of know-how diversity in our way of working, including “When we have such and value creation for Norway as a nation both classical innovation methods and have been and will continue to be our main more agile ways of working. large challenges priorities. I still think it is possible to achieve ahead and the significant cost savings in the years to “We see that when we work together new come,” says Berlijn. products, markets, know-how and values results of R&D are so are being created, which has always been indisputably positive, When we have such large challenges ahead an important goal,” says Berlijn. One and the results of R&D are so indisputably final, important challenge is to ensure an it is not surprising positive, it is not surprising that ambitions adequate number of new employees with have increased for the next programme the right expertise for both the industry that ambitions have period. Statnett’s research budgets will and research institutes, by working closely increased for the next increase significantly in the period, from together with colleges and universities. approximately NOK 90 million in 2018 “We must further develop. The know-how programme period.” to NOK 110–120 million per year in the we need in the future. We represent an coming years. interdisciplinary environment that ranges SONJA MONICA BERLIJN from the classic professions within electrical DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH Cooperating on good solutions power to IT and the social sciences. It is AND DEVELOPMENT Berlijn is clear on the biggest challenge in in the intersection of these fields that we STATNETT the next programme period. “It is important will create value for the future,” concludes that we continue to strongly involve the line Berlijn. organisation in Statnett.

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The power system itself notifies of Statnett’s first patent achieved through when it needs inspection innovation and creativity

The R&D project SAMBA SAMBA has researched the methods and “There is a great potential for cost-savings “Applying for this patent was The method was developed as part of players from using it. Statnett therefore shows that it would be methodology needed to transition asset and streamlining to be found in the important to ensure that we the R&D work on composite pylons and decided that it was important to apply for possible to base asset management from routine maintenance and monitoring and follow-up of the various and others would have the consists of a bracket attached to the pylon the patent itself. parts replacement to an approach based power system components. In addition, leg, adapted to the design of the cross arm management on the facility’s on the actual condition of power system there is considerable potential for increasing right to use the method,” which is bolted to it. “At the same time, it has been a demanding actual condition – rather than components. It can be compared to a car knowledge about how the components says Statnett engineer, Ivar process to have this patent approved and on routine service intervals. telling you when it needs service, instead of react to different loads. This can also give Brovold. The solution that has “The fact that we have received a patent our strategy to secure the rights to use the having it done at regular intervals. us the opportunity to utilise the power confirms that we are an innovative methods and technology we develop in SAMBA has produced 12 innovations. The system more efficiently,” explains the project been patented is designed to company. I am proud of that,” says Sonja the future will probably go in the opposite results and conclusions from SAMBA will be manager. create a good distribution of Berlijn, R&D Director. direction. We will prioritise making methods an important part of the continuing work on the forces in thin composite and technology that we develop available establishing Statnett’s future approach to SAMBA is based on the four main areas material. Decided to apply for the patent for everyone to use – or develop further. In asset management. of: transformers, power lines, cables and Since a number of companies work with this way, we can prevent other companies circuit breakers. Under these main areas, composite as a material, it was important to from obtaining a patent for what we have “The key is to collect, manage and act research was conducted on 19 specific avoid others receiving a patent for a similar developed, while at the same time increasing on large amounts of data,” says Project areas, including aging in transformer solution and then possibly preventing other competition among the suppliers,” says Berlijn. Manager Arne Smisethjell. Dashboards, windings, the condition of a large number health indexes and automatic responses of line joints and the temperature of can be set up. However, the information high-voltage cables. The four main areas must be indexed in a way that allows it to are linked to an overarching project that be linked together, whether it is collected comprised research into the collection, from sensors, weather data, drones, managing, processing and use of data, as historical data or other sources. well as recommendations related to smarter asset management for Statnett. Congratulations to R&D receiving Monitors the health status of the power system SAMBA received project support from Statnett’s HSE award for 2018 Since the project started in 2016, extensive the Research Council of Norway as an research has been conducted on how Innovation Project for the Industrial Sector On 18 December 2018, Statnett’s internal HSE award, SIKKER, Statnett can identify the health status of (IPN) through ENERGIX. The project was various power system components. The officially completed in January 2019. was awarded for the fifth time. This time, the award went to work has been led by SINTEF Energy R&D for their systematic HSE work over a long period of time. Research, in collaboration with ABB, GE, IBM and Statnett. “It motivates us in our work moving forward, HSE risk, such as work at height and with and we are very pleased to receive the helicopters.” award,” said a very pleased R&D Director Sonja Berlijn at the award ceremony. In addition to personal safety, areas where The SIKKER award was created to recognise Statnett's R&D activity has improved I and highlight good HSE performance the company’s HSE work are: climate, internally, which helps to remove the highest environment, information security and the risks at Statnett. The award was presented quantification of HSE risk assessments and “The key is to P by CEO Auke Lont at a congregation of benefits . collect, manage employees on 18 December. Too early “It is important for everyone to stay safe at and act on large R&D challenges the status quo work, and we must have a reliable energy Just-in-time amounts of data.” The motivation for giving the award to R&D system in terms of security of supply as was described as follows: “An important well as cyber security. At the same time, we F Too late task for R&D is to challenge existing ways must contribute solutions that both reduce

ARNE SMISETHJELL Resistance to Failure of doing things. A number of project our environmental footprint and reduce PROJECT MANAGER STATNETT results which elimate HSE risks have been climate emissions, while also safeguarding I–P Interval P–F Interval implemented. There has been particular our facilities against climate change,” Time focus on work operations with a high explained Berlijn at the award ceremony.

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New award to AutoDig “Billions more in AutoDig recently won second place in the Norwegian Smartgrid Centre’s innovation competition. benefits can still be The award was introduced in 2018, and it is established to raise awareness of projects that lead the way in smart grids. This is not the first time that AutoDig has been noticed.

Photo: Jørgen Braastad realised”

“Everything that is happening in the energy Pettersen has previously received Statnett’s summary is used by Statnett’s operational Statnett’s research and innovation work has delivered billions in cost efficiency sector under the umbrella of “digitalisation” own innovation award for the project. environments to find and implement improvements in recent years. “There is no reason to believe that we have reached is incredibly exciting, and it is fun for the the right measures. The first version of the full potential. Quite the contrary,” say Statnett’s three programme managers. team – and for Statnett – to develop a “We are proud of this recognition for AutoDig was launched in 2016, and product that stands out in the crowd,” says AutoDig. It is great to be involved in an the development of AutoDig 2.0 started product owner Christian Sundal Melaaen. innovative, important and long-term project immediately the following year. Photo: Christian Søgaard that is also noticed outside Statnett,” says Each year, the Norwegian Smartgrid Centre data scientist Gunnhild Svandal Presthus. “Clearly, the increased attention from this For nearly 20 years, Statnett’s research selects one or more themes in connection award makes us even more eager to seize projects have contributed to smarter, with the competition. This year’s theme was Automatic diagnosis of the opportunities ahead. We have great safer, more sustainable and more efficient “Leading-edge project that uses smart grid operational interruptions in the expectations for what we will be able to solutions. Norwegian energy research has technologies to increase operational security power system create in the future together with our users. changed its focus several times during and cost efficiency in the grid system”. AutoDig, which started as an R&D project We can already see that there is great this period: from energy consumption, First and third places, respectively, went back in 2009, automatically identifies and value in using data smarter, which will only energy economy and technical solutions to Agder Energi Nett for “Digitalisation for reports operational interruptions in the increase as we learn more. This award to market, innovation, climate adaptation optimal construction and operation of the power grid. By “listening” to various data only strengthens our expectations,” says and digitalisation in recent years. Research power grid” and to eSmart for “Connected streams, AutoDig can deliver a summary Melaaen. activities have become thematically broader Drone”. In 2017, AutoDig came third in the of the operating interruption – less than and the scope has increased. Innovation Challenge, and Jørn Schaug- 60 seconds after the failure. The Statnett has put together an autonomous team to continue the development of According to a recent report from the AutoDig. The team will have a lot of latitude Research Council of Norway, energy and authority to solve the task at hand. It research has yielded billions of kroner in is an interdisciplinary team with expertise in direct cost savings to Norwegian society. both electric engineering and IT. Together, Statnett’s calculations show that R&D the team covers a large part of the value work in the period from 2014 to 2018 has chain, from when a sensor is installed to delivered projects with potential savings of when the sensor data is used – via AutoDig more than NOK 7 billion for Statnett and – as decision support in operational the industry as a whole. In addition, R&D activities. work has contributed to increased safety, improved environmental conditions and Melaaen explains that they work in short increased expertise. sprints and continuously make functionality available to users. This facilitates frequent The three programme managers Oddgeir improvements and contributes to a tightly Kaspersen, Jørn Egil Johnsen and Ingeborg integrated collaboration between users and Buchalik in Statnett’s R&D department lead the team. research on innovative technology, smart grids and sustainable system development, “The AutoDig team is a good example of respectively. They all believe that this how our commitment to digitalisation has research will play an even more important yielded results, and everything indicates role in the years to come, especially in there are still many necessary digitalisation laying the foundation for the changes that processes to come in the operation of the the power market will undergo. power system,” concludes R&D Director AutoDig automatically identifies and reports operational interruptions in the power grid. Sonja Berlijn.

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guaranteeing relevance to specific issues of aircraft warning markers, for example. “Many times we we face. This is something that only our Far less use of helicopters results in cost own people can see, so it is immensely savings, improved safety and environmental see that more important to involve them. We wouldn’t be benefits. Our focus on drone and sensor able to deliver research and development to technology will have similar effects.” environmentally the same extent without the line.” friendly solutions are Statnett’s R&D work focuses on four “What challenges will research goals: Digitalisation, cost savings, skills face in the future?” also cost-saving.” development and sustainable development. Ingeborg: “Developments in society are constantly speeding up and this poses JØRN EGIL JOHNSEN “Can you give any examples of new challenges both for research and for PROGRAMME MANAGER, SMART GRIDS research projects that deliver Statnett. We must deliver innovations and STATNETT well on all four goals?” solutions within shorter time perspectives Jorn: “Most projects fulfil two or three and adapt methodologies to a world that is goals. But it is more important that the changing ever faster.” projects as a whole deliver well on all four goals. For example, the SAMBA and Long trajectories will still be important, digital substation projects are good for as it is the nature of research that results skills development and cost efficiency, can take time to realise. But research and the Icebox project is good in terms of environments must adapt to shorter time savings, sustainable development and skills horizons than three or four years, because FACTS Oddgeir Kaspersen, Programme Manager for Innovative Technology, and Ingeborg Buchalik, development. The project on alternatives to the world is shifting faster than before. Programme Manager for Smart Grids, Programme Manager for Sustainable System Development. Jørn Egil Johnsen. expanding the power grid delivers very well Public funding on all four targets. “This will be particularly important with Public funding for research plays regard to digitalisation and IT. We will an important role in the R&D “Seven billion kroner is an One challenge for anyone working with Oddgeir: “The development of a new probably see a shift towards reporting of professionals in the field. In some areas projects in which Statnett is impressively high number. Does research and innovation is that no one aluminium pylon is also a good example partial results more often. If four years there are fewer than ten people in the entire involved. Of about 60 active R&D that mean that the big benefits knows which ideas or projects will produce of an innovation that provides many and pass between each time, the whole Nordic region who possess the necessary projects, the Research Council of Norway / Skattefunn, the have already been realised?” results and which will run aground along compound benefits.” foundation for the research may no expertise. This creates a vulnerability Norwegian Water Resources and the way. Accordingly, a basic principle at longer be present,” says Jørn. that Statnett hopes to address through Energy Directorate (NVE) and Oddgeir: “No, I don’t think the full potential Statnett is to secure a sufficiently large “How important are environmental, stronger cooperation with other research ENOVA contribute to more than has been extracted yet. I believe we can supply of ideas and project proposals at all nature conservation and climate A final challenge shared by the entire environments and universities in the years half. realise equally significant cost savings and times. The programme managers compare considerations in research work?” research community is a general shortage to come. secure new values in the coming years. And the process from idea to results to a funnel: Ingeborg: “It is a crucial perspective. We it is not as if we have only focused on areas A large number of ideas eventually get work to minimise the negative impacts of or fields where we thought the prospect of funnelled down into a handful of promising our facilities on biodiversity and landscape cost savings was highest. Certain projects, innovations. values, as well as to reduce greenhouse such as the use of robots for installation gas emissions from construction and work, also deliver very well on HSE.” “How is the rest of the operation.” organisation involved in R&D Jorn: “A lot of exciting things are work?” “But doesn’t nature often lose happening in the areas of digitalisation, Jørn: “We can be proud that we have been to people’s need for growth and automation and artificial intelligence. We able to involve so many from the line in the progress?” have a lot more to gain. Thanks to research, research work, and I believe it is a strength Ingeborg: “It’s not ‘either or’. We can take the power system of the future will look and one of the reasons why we get results environmental considerations into account quite different. from our research to such a large extent. and at the same time build the power There are many enthusiastic people here system of the future. We aim to create Ingeborg Buchalik points out that the who have made great contributions.” acceptance for taking into consideration potential for adopting new, efficient and nature conservation, the climate and the innovative solutions is increasing in step Oddgeir: “The line is important for environment in all our operations. It’s also a with the increasing electrification in society. ensuring that research is heading in the reason why we have social economists at This leads to potential savings and value right direction. There may be 150 project Statnett and not just business economists creation on the bottom line. applications at each call for proposals and – to promote solutions that are in the best we have probably assessed almost 600 interest of society. “There are an increasing number of ideas on an ongoing basis in the last 4–5 different players who can make use of years. As we work through the qualification Jørn: “I often find that the goals new innovations. I don’t think the potential and testing process, some projects are coincide. Many times we see that more is less. On the contrary,” she says. dropped, while others are combined. environmentally friendly solutions are Involving our own people is important for also cost-saving. Take robot installation

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Digital substation – from substation bus to process bus

“Smarter, safer and smaller. If we were to formulate the goal of our research on digital substations in a few words, then these would best describe the benefits that we believe are within our grasp.”

Photo: Terje Borud

We had made the trip to Furuset substation, time, this project also has a sustainability “At a general level, the just north of Oslo, to have a look at the and life cycle perspective. Statnett is R&D project “Digital substation”, and were constantly working to find environmentally work we do in this shown into the iconic building from the 60s friendly and cost-effective solutions. For by Rannveig Løken, Project Manager and example, a digital substation will take up project will put both Nargis Hurzuk, Specialist Resource and much less space, with less wiring and Statnett and Norway Technical Manager. And the three words – reduced installation time compared to the smarter, safer and more compact – would digital substation with station bus that in a better position to turn out to be a very good summary of we have today. These are also important handle the challenges a project that is so ground-breaking and factors that we address in our research.” complex that even gifted reporters with we will be facing in the above-average insight into technology and Digitalisation against digitalisation are struggling to keep up. the primary system future. By this I mean Calling today’s substations analogue is a renewable energy Environmentally friendly wrong description. “The control system at and cost-effective today’s substations communicates over sources, new data And it is precisely digitalisation – at the a TCP/IP network with IEDs (intelligent social, business and process levels – that electronic devices) that exchange data centres and the need is at the core of Løken and Hurzuk’s digitally – both with each other and with for increased security, enthusiastic and animated explanation of the systems control centre. This network how exciting the project “Digital substation” is called a station bus. At the same time, for example.” is for Statnett, for Norway and for them. the interface between the control system “‘Digital substation’ is naturally about inside and the primary system outside is RANNVEIG LØKEN digitalising processes and equipment at analogue and hardwired. As many as 800 PROJECT MANAGER Statnett’s substations,” explains Rannveig conductors or copper wires are physically STATNETT Løken. “At an overarching level, the work stretched between the primary system we do in this project will put both Statnett and the control room,” explains Løken and and Norway in a better position to handle points to the back of the swing frame in the the challenges we will be facing in the control cabinet in the room where we’re future. By this I mean renewable energy standing, to show us what this looks like sources, new data centres and the need for in practice. The difference between the old increased security, for example. and new cabinets at Furuset is striking, not least when you know that a single optical In other words, we are working to make fibre cable can replace hundreds of copper grids smarter,” she continues. “At the same wires.

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place at the factory, before delivery to the substation,” says Nargis Hurzuk.

The benefits of a digital substation “We have been working with the pilot project at Furuset substation since 2016, and we have learned a lot about how the digital process bus concept works in practice – about compatibility and coexistence with the existing control system and primary system and about the potential that lies in the standard we have adopted,” says Rannveig Løken. There are a number of benefits to be had from implementing this technological solution at substations: • More work can be done remotely. One example is routine testing of protection Research colleagues Nargis Hurzuk (left) and Rannveig Løken expect that having digital measures. Less work at the station also substations will reduce installation time by 30 per cent compared to today’s substations. means improved safety for personnel. • A more compact facility. • Using process buses and less cabling provides greater flexibility and scalability – and lower costs. “We anticipate 30 per cent shorter installation • Shorter installation time and less of a At Furuset in Oslo, a realistic pilot need to test equipment at the substation. installation has been set up in parallel time compared to current substations, both More can be done at the factory. with the existing substation. because the equipment is easier to set up and • Easier data collection from the primary system in connection with maintenance because more of the testing can take place at and digitalisation. the factory, before delivery to the substation.” • A greater degree of self-monitoring will “It goes without saying that the work “In a digital substation, the cables to the result in higher quality at the facility. required to build a substation of current primary system will be replaced by a • Increased opportunities for remote standard is extensive. The conductors must process bus: a digital interface between NARGIS HURZUK access and remote diagnosis also reduce be pulled through culverts from the primary the control system and the primary system. TECHNICAL MANAGER operating costs. system on the outside to the inside of the Although Furuset is not the world’s first STATNETT • Reduced electromagnetic noise due to control building, where they are terminated digital substation, we are at the cutting the transition to optical fibre connections. at the protection and control system. edge in terms of using a standardised • Optical current transformers remove the Control rooms need to be large to make bus that enables the transfer of data and HSE risk of high voltage in the circuit in the room for all the equipment, and scalability is communication between units from many event of faults / when opening these circuits. limited by new available conductors for new different suppliers using the same standard. signals. The flexibility of this kind of solution This is one of the benefits of the substation of “Having partners to collaborate with on is really quite poor.” the future: we will be less dependent on one this type of project is essential,” emphasise supplier and can put together more flexible Løken and Hurzuk. “In the first project, we From one bus to another solutions than we have been able to before. have been working with Jacobsen Elektro, At Furuset, the two research colleagues Sprecher, Siemens, ABB, Omicron, Cisco, have set up a pilot project in parallel to the “Although this project has been running Meinberg and Landis+Gyr. In the next phase, existing substation. It’s realistic, although for a while, we are really at the start of where one of the issues relates to how TSOs Nargis Hurzuk says they have cheated an exciting development. Just seeing (Transmission System Operators) and DSOs a little. “In a fully digital substation, the how different components work together, (Distribution System Operators) can share equipment inside the control room will be or testing whether we can use one IED ownership to exchange information in a connected to the primary system on the to control two lines, provides valuable digital substation, our collaboration partners outside, which communicates over an knowledge. Every time we are up here, will be Hafslund, the Norwegian Water optical fibre network. Instead, we have we see that a digital substation is easier Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE), connected directly to the existing control to build and takes up less space. We Skagerak Energi, Agder Energi, SINTEF, system in the same room and retrieve our anticipate 30 per cent shorter installation the Norwegian University of Science and data from there and transfer it over to our time compared to current substations, both Technology (NTNU) and Eidsiva,” conclude digital substation. because the equipment is easier to set up Project Manager Rannveig Løken and and because more of the testing can take Technical Manager Nargis Hurzuk.

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Aluminium and composite Health, safety, the environment, quality and costs are assessed as an alternative to steel as a whole when we analyse new alternatives for pylon solutions,” say Andreas Istad Lem and in the pylons of the future Øyvind Welgaard.

Lighter, safer and easier to transport and assemble. Fewer helicopter flights and

better use of weather windows during construction periods. CO2 emissions cut in half. And reduced costs. Statnett’s research on new pylons will have consequences for Norwegian infrastructure, the environment and the use of resources in the future.

Photo: Christian Søgaard

“The work to develop new pylon solutions “The work on an aluminium pylon started “Precisely because of the that will replace or supplement current with our existing standard steel pylon and steel-based structures is based on the the challenges it presents,” continues Istad complexity of the project, challenges these represent from a holistic Lem. “For example, gravity – it weighs perspective,” says Project Manager roughly between 10 and 30 tonnes and it has been important Andreas Istad Lem. “We consider health, in most situations must be transported for us to work with safety, the environment, quality and by helicopter – with all the safety risk that costs as a whole, and when we analyse hanging loads entail. Steel pylons rely on players who both have an alternative, we focus on the ‘total a very large number of screws and bolts experience in the field cost of ownership’ (TCO) and a life cycle and are more time-consuming to set up perspective. than a lighter aluminium pylon would be. and who would be in a In addition, the properties of the materials “With that as our starting point, we have are different: steel is very well suited to position to contribute developed a new aluminium pylon ready for long, slender beams while aluminium works to the production of the a pilot project next summer. But it hasn’t best as slightly shorter or wider beams. just been clear sailing to get to this point.” We also knew from the outset that it is final result.” easier to obtain large steel profiles – that Partners are essential is, broad beams – than correspondingly ANDREAS ISTAD LEM Existing standard pylons are made of steel. large aluminium profiles and that limitations PROJECT MANAGER In the search for new materials, aluminium related to production would be a factor. STATNETT is the obvious choice, but composite materials based on fibreglass are also “Precisely because of the complexity currently being tested in a separate R&D of the project, it has been important for project that is right on the heels of the us to work with players who both have aluminium pylon. experience in the field and who would be

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Up against several world records on Ålvik Mountain

With its high mountains, coastal climate and freezing temperatures, Norway is particularly vulnerable to icing on power lines. The unofficial world record was set in 1961 on Lønahorgi Mountain in the municipality of Voss. Now, Icebox is up against new records. We made the trip up to the exposed measurement station on Ålvik Mountain to remove ice and mount sensors on the power lines.

Photo: Christian Søgaard Project Manager Andreas Istad Lem (left) and Øyvind Welgaard considered various pylon constructions before they made their choice.

in a position to contribute to the production stress tests. The pylon was twisted, bent solution using composite material. “Our of the final result. Here, the Raufoss and pressed, and over a three-day period, starting point is the same as for Andreas cluster has been essential, with invaluable we exposed it to such great strain that it and the group that has been working on support from HAP and Kapp Aluminium in eventually broke. During the process, we an aluminium design: we are working for a particular. In addition, our other partners – were able to confirm that the structure was lighter solution that is more cost-effective, the Norwegian University of Science and able to withstand what it was designed for, safer and easier to assemble and with the Technology (NTNU), SINTEF and Hydro, with a good – but not too good – margin, smallest environmental footprint possible. and the highly competent gang at EFLA around 20–30 per cent. This confirmed We are currently on the third version of the have also had a key role. And Statnett has the quality of both the material and our design, where we are using fibreglass with taken an active role in the project right calculation methodology.” a good ratio between strength, weight and from the start, to ensure that our demands price. were kept clearly in focus throughout the Thinking in terms of TCO during development process,” says Istad Lem. development also entails a strong focus “We know that there are composite on the environmental impacts of a new solutions for pylons that will carry 132 kV Resilliant and environmentally pylon from a lifecycle perspective. “Here lines, but there are none that can take 420 friendly too, we experienced very positive results. kV lines. Our solution is also similar to the “We considered different constructions in The carbon footprint of the pylon that will existing steel pylons, and we are aiming the design phase and looked at several be installed near Kobbelv in the summer to produce a prototype and start testing solutions. However, the pylon we have is 50 per cent less than current solutions, early next year, with a possible pilot project decided to go with closely resembles the provided that we use European aluminium scheduled for 2021. The requirements for existing steel pylons that have been in use and that the pylon is recycled when it is cost-effectiveness and TCO are equally high for decades. That testifies to the good taken out of service. and the results of a life cycle analysis must design of our current pylons. be at least as good as for the aluminium Composite – right on the heels pylon. All the tests we have conducted so “A 30-metre prototype was put together In Statnett’s other R&D project on pylons, far give reason to be optimistic,” concludes on the ground as a test and later erected in Project Manager Øyvind Welgaard is Øyvind Welgaard, Project Manager for Seville and subjected to a number of hard responsible for the development of a composite pylons.

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The ice is knocked off the power “We believe there is line using a helicopter and a unexploited potential wooden pole. in the use of heat to melt the ice on power lines, but the method is best suited if we start when there are small amounts of ice.”

ØYVIND WELGAARD PROJECT MANAGER FOR ICEBOX STATNETT

The new sensors that are being installed will send data on the weight of the high- The environmentally friendly power supply voltage line and when they have to be de-iced, directly via the 4G network. will supply power to a webcam, which makes it possible to monitor the weather situation on the mountain. “Ålvik Mountain is really the reason why between nine partners: Statnett, Kjeller bad weather left him stranded up on we’re working on this project,” says Øyvind Vindteknikk, Efla Norway and Efla Island, the mountain. Then they had no choice Welgaard, Civil Engineer at Statnett and Independent Insulation Group (I2G), the but to strap on their skis and defy the Project Manager for Icebox. University of Tromsø, Ucar, Cicero and challenging landscape. Since then, they Landsnet. The project started last year have implemented new employee safety It is just a few minutes past eight in the and will run until 2021. practices, in the event of a sudden surely start rotating as the ice builds up. morning. It is still dark outside as we change in the weather. Today, there is an This is because they become heavier on drive along the winding roads towards The aim of the project is to find new solutions emergency shelter on the mountain for one side, causing them to twist. They are Ålvik Mountain in Kvam municipality in to the problem of icing, which not only results personnel stranded in bad weather. often completely encapsulated in ice, and Hardanger. in major repair and maintenance costs but the ice layer becomes so strong that it also entails a great risk for the personnel Moderate icing doesn’t break off so easily,” he says. An extraordinary event in 2014 served as responsible for de-icing power lines. From where we’re standing, the sun is the impetus for the FRonTLINES project, shining and there are no threatening clouds He points to the gauge hanging on one of which later became the Icebox project: When we arrive at the heliport, Petter Aker overhead. It looks like we have the weather the wooden pylons. Only two weeks after a power line was put from Kjeller Vindteknikk comes over for a chat on our side – for now. into operation, the earth wire peak on an while the helicopter is preparing for take-off. “So that’s why we have a rotating gauge. It electricity pylon cracked under an ice load After a short helicopter ride, we arrive at measures how much ice forms on the iron bar, that was almost three times higher than the “This is a bit of a special case because it’s the measurement station at the top of which will be the same as on the power lines.” line was designed for. not far to the measurement station – only the mountain, and the magnificent winter a few kilometres – but it’s 1,000 metres landscape opens up in front of us. “It’s not a very big installation, but in the “Then we realised that we had too little above sea level, and the area is highly future it may be possible to use smaller and information about the effects of ice build- exposed to foul weather blowing in off the Petter points down towards the fjord. better instruments,” he says enthusiastically. up on power lines,” says Welgaard. fjord,” says Petter. “What happens when the wind blows the Maintenance under harsh A risky operation He himself has made the trip up to Ålvik moisture in the air against these high- climatic conditions The Icebox project is a collaboration Mountain three times before. One time, voltage power lines is that they slowly but The helicopter makes several trips to bring

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Petter Aker from Kjeller Vindteknikk has personally experienced being stranded on Ålvik Mountain in bad weather. Since then, New framework to increase they have implemented new employee safety practices, in the event of a sudden change in the weather. environmental responsibility refuel or perform any maintenance at all,” says Øyvind. in construction work Icing forecasts Currently, Statnett mainly uses two methods to remove ice: by using a helicopter that “Interventions in nature and the knocks off the ice with a wooden pole or destruction of habitats are the by heating the wires. biggest threat to biodiversity “In addition to receiving information on how – in Norway and in the rest of much ice is on the power line, we will use the world. At Statnett, we are icing forecasts to help us predict how much working actively to minimise ice is expected to form on the power line over a period of 48 hours, for example,” the negative consequences says Øyvind. of construction work and land use both for society and for This will enable Statnett to do something about the problem before it is too late. the environment. For us, it is During periods when icing is at its worst, natural to use research to find helicopters are often grounded due to high a better framework for greener winds and poor visibility. interventions.”

“We believe there is unexploited potential in Photo: Terje Borud the use of heat to melt the ice on power lines, but the method is best suited if we start when Ellen Torsæter Hoff is responsible for the GRAN project, which started in 2018. The aim of the “It’s not a very big up all the equipment needed to install the there are small amounts of ice,” he adds. project is to develop a methodology to improve the planning and execution of construction work. new sensors that will transmit data on the installation, but in weight of the high-voltage power lines, A successful operation and when they need to be de-iced. The The sound of the helicopter breaks the These are the words of Ellen Torsæter Hoff, consequences and a starting point for Climate and environment the future it may new sensors send data directly via the silence on Ålvik Mountain, as it lifts off from Senior Advisor for Land and Environment developing a methodology for better – seen in context be possible to use 4G network, and have batteries that last the ground with a wooden pole hanging at Statnett and responsible for the GRAN planning and execution of construction A new framework must include all the for about a year. Eventually, they will be underneath. The snow and ice fly off the project, who continues: “Changes in land work. phases of a development project, from smaller and better switched to Narrowband, which will boost power line with every hit. Cleaning it all off use are undoubtedly one of the biggest the early planning phase, via the actual instruments.” battery life, allowing them to operate for up requires precision and patience. threats to biodiversity, with potentially major “There are already many general construction work to operation and any to 10 years. consequences for species associated with recommendations and guidelines for dismantling of a facility that is no longer in Fortunately there is much less ice than certain natural habitats. When developing mitigating measures and environmental use. GRAN’s goal is to provide knowledge PETTER AKER According to Øyvind, the plan is to mount when Øyvind was here one cold January renewable energy resources and the power considerations. We have also gathered a that is relevant throughout the entire TECHNICIAN new sensors on more power lines in the day last year – when one of the power lines grid, we must ensure that our construction lot of knowledge on the implementation mitigation hierarchy. “In the planning phase, KJELLER VINDTEKNIKK autumn, after they identified where they was hanging a mere 2.5 metres above projects inflict minimial damage to and effects of specific measures, but this we have the opportunity to avoid vulnerable have the greatest problems with icing. the ground under the weight of massive vulnerable natural environments, and that knowledge is fragmented and rarely takes areas and set out good guidelines for amounts of ice and snow. our consumption of various non-renewable into account the challenges associated mitigating measures, while during and after “In addition to sensors, a completely new resources during construction activities with our specific facilities. Climate change construction, it is important to examine type of environmentally friendly power “Then, we could stand over there, jump up is so low that our total environmental also means that the environment is opportunities for mitigation, restoration and supply will be installed to supply power to and touch it,” says Øyvind, pointing to the accounts do not end up in the red.” constantly changing, and knowledge must – as a last resort – compensation. a webcam, which will allow us to monitor ice-free power line now hanging high above be updated. In addition, it is an important “There is a need for a systematic review the weather situation on the mountain and the ground. A framework that will be used goal to ensure that environmental measures of a large number of measures and an the amount of ice on the high-voltage lines,” Statnett is always working on research are adapted to the development project’s analysis of these based on environmental says Petter. The two experienced technicians have put projects to help minimise the negative feasibility frameworks and applicable and construction data. This will allow us to on their snowshoes and are getting ready to environmental impacts of our facilities. standards for design, contracts and follow- document both good and bad solutions “The idea is to create a more climb up the pylon to mount the new sensors. “The GRAN project”, which was initiated in up. To put it simply, There is no point in – in order to limit short-term and long- environmentally friendly measurement 2018, will collect data on the interventions having a framework that no one can live up term consequences. This knowledge and station, which can be self-sufficient for two “Beautiful weather,” one of them says, made by Statnett’s development projects to or wants to use,” explains Torsæter Hoff. systematic review are important because to four years, so that we don’t need to before moving away across the snow. and thus provide knowledge of the we have examples of measures that

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A part of the GRAN project will be to use existing emission figures per habitat type and specific land use plans “A new framework must include all the phases to identify the amount of climate gas emissions from removed soil and vegetation. of a development project, from the early planning phase, via the actual construction work to operation and any dismantling of a facility that is no longer in use.”

ELLEN TORSÆTER HOFF SENIOR ADVISOR FOR ENVIRONMENT AND LICENSING STATNETT

are effective in some areas, but which guides/manuals, tender documents, may have a negative effect under other contracts and minutes of construction conditions,” explains Torsæter Hoff. meetings to evaluate how measures and plans are converted into solutions in the “We must develop routines to limit land use field,” concludes Statnett’s Land and in our construction projects, especially in Environmental Advisor, Ellen Torsæter Hoff. marshes and wetlands. The total amount of carbon in all the world’s marshes is about Value-creating renewal the same as what’s in the atmosphere. GRAN was launched in 2018, and received Other habitat types also act as carbon project support from the Research Council storage, so all construction in natural of Norway as an Innovation Project for areas contributes to greenhouse gas the Industrial Sector (IPN). The purpose emissions in addition to the destruction of of IPN projects is to lead to innovation habitats. Limiting land use is therefore a (value-creating renewal) in the companies good environmental measure. In GRAN, that participate in the project. GRAN is we will use existing emission figures per headed by Statnett, in cooperation with the habitat type along with specific plans for Norwegian Water Resources and Energy land use for a variety of facilities – including Directorate (NVE) and the Norwegian transformer substations, service roads and Public Roads Administration (NPRA). The pylon locations. By using GIS analyses and Norwegian Institute for Nature Research project plans, we can map the extent to (NINA) and the Norwegian University which different habitats are affected and of Science and Technology (NTNU) are thus calculate carbon emissions for different conducting the research work. solutions.” In 2018, the project has mainly worked “Environmental requirements and plans that with specifying goals, making plans for are used as a basis for project planning further work, finding relevant literature and design, contracts and follow-up are and communicating with other actors often general and do not follow the same who can assist in finding good solutions. form and standard as technical/financial An inspection has been carried out along requirements. This makes them difficult Statnett’s Western Corridor project in to implement and follow up. In order for Rogaland. In this area, there are facilities of the knowledge of damage minimisation various ages and sizes in a diverse natural and restoration to be fully implemented environment, which makes it very suitable at the individual facility, we must improve for field surveys. Field work is planned in the system for collaboration and the summer of 2019 and 2020, and will be implementation. In GRAN, we will carry out carried out by NINA in collaboration with document analyses, including regulations, summer interns employed by Statnett.

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What are the alternatives to expanding the grid?

In the wake of the R&D project “Alternatives to expanding the power grid”, research is now underway on potential solutions as alternatives to grid development. In the long run, the goal is a more efficient power system.

“We want the market to adapt itself and power used at any one time and the power HARRIS UTNE PROJECT MANAGER for consumption to match production,” grid is dimensioned based on maximum STATNETT says Harris Utne, Project Manager for usage, the balance between what is the exciting and innovative project that is produced and what is used mainly depends currently taking shape. on consumers.

According to Utne, an important aspect of “If we reduce consumption peaks, we Point number two is about what Harris further project planning is to examine the will also reduce the need for a larger grid. describes as price elasticity and implicit resources that are currently available and This can either happen in the market by flexibility. In other words, how consumers specifically what can be done to reduce the consumers adapting to spot prices and grid adapt to market prices. need for new grid development in Norway. tariffs or by, for example, Statnett asking consumers to reduce their consumption in “In big cities where there is high consumption “Everyone wants a secure and robust given situations and at certain times,” says on the coldest days, with little electricity power supply. At the same time, grid Utne. production, it is a challenge to have enough construction is both costly and time capacity. The question then is how much consuming, while the demand for and Important to keep up we adjust power consumption in line with production of electricity are constantly with the times increased electricity prices,” Harris says. evolving. Consequently, it is important In order to find the best options for future to look at what solutions are available to development, we are reliant on examining Finally, point three focuses on how we can achieve a more efficient power system,” and testing existing opportunities and make the most of existing opportunities says Utne. solutions. Harris highlights three points that and how they can be combined to create are important for the further development of a more efficient power system. He himself Power consumption sets the project. is positive about the process and not least the pace of development about Statnett’s role in the forward-looking Harris points out the importance of good “The first is an issue that concerns many project. collaboration with other players in the people: the electrification of transport, project, especially with other grid operators. and the opportunities this provides for “In many cases, grid construction will still efficient system operation. Consumers be necessary. But we want to be involved in “Changes to the power system cannot can contribute to a more efficient power testing and using new solutions to see what take place without extensive cooperation in grid by facilitating the management of effects they could have. Regardless, the the industry. Statnett is involved in several flexible consumption. One example that power system will become more complex research projects, including with CINELDI is often used in this regard is the charging with the advent of more wind and solar and the Norwegian Smartgrid Centre, of electric cars, but examining the heating power and new types of consumption which aim to help to develop an intelligent and ventilation of buildings probably has – such as electric cars and data centres – power system based on information and an even greater potential. And we can also and new and cheaper system management communication technology. In addition, enter into agreements with consumers technology. It will be important for Statnett Statnett’s Matthias Hofmann is writing who control demand. By limiting new to keep up with the times, to use new his doctorate on consumers and price consumption or new production in given technology and other methods to control elasticity,” says Utne. situations, we may be able to avoid new consumption, and to manage the power Photo: iStockphoto As power generation corresponds to the grid investments,” says Utne. system for the benefit of all,” he concludes.

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Beneath the streets of Oslo, Statnett is digging a four kilometre long tunnel for the new cable connections between Smestad and Sogn. The entire construction site is fossil-free. The drill in the photo runs on electricity when it is in operation. When it needs to be moved, it runs on fossil-free fuel.

This is a fossil-free construction site How can Statnett’s construction sites become completely emission-free? This is the challenge being addressed by the R&D project “Fossil-free and emission-free construction site”, which is investigating how electrification can move construction activities into a new age.

Photo: Christian Søgaard

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Marte Bakken says that emissions-free construction sites will represent a completely new paradigm, while at the same time posing major technological challenges.

diesel, we would simply have a problem on a large excavator that uses 100,000 “The climate benefit with access,” explains Bakken. litres of fuel per year, and that the average annual fuel consumption for Norwegian from the electrification She is therefore of the clear opinion that passenger cars is 600 litres. electricity is the solution. It is also where of construction sites the great shift will come. While conventional “Emission-free construction sites will will be tremendous. construction machinery can be run on represent a paradigm shift. But this is also renewable diesel, a 100 per cent electrical where we face the greatest technological The electrification construction site requires all new machinery. challenges. As yet, there is no emission-free of one excavator heavy machinery available in Norway, and Part two of the project the market is still small. Finding electrical will correspond to That is precisely the focus of part two of solutions for heavy machinery will be The first part of the project was completed Statnett currently has two fossil-free the project, which is being carried out in key, and the fact that many suppliers are the electrification of in January 2018, with the presentation projects: Smestad–Sogn and the Ålfoten collaboration with Rambøll. Part two was currently developing electrical machinery is 165 cars with a fuel of a report on how Statnett can plan and substation. There are numerous benefits at started in September 2018, and the report a very positive step in the right direction,” implement fossil-free construction sites. many levels. Greenhouse gas emissions are will be delivered by 1 March 2019. she says. economy of reduced by about 80 per cent. In addition, The results were used in Norway’s first feedback from personnel indicates that Marte Bakken continues: The industry is on board 5 L/100 km (56.5 mpg).” project involving fossil-free construction working conditions have been improved in “While working towards emission-free Logistics is one of the challenges that work, specifically the renovation of the terms of air quality. construction sites, we must have two need to be addressed. What should use a MARTE BAKKEN power lines between the Smestad and perspectives. The short-term perspective is cable connection and what should run on SENIOR ADVISOR FOR CLIMATE Sogn substations in Oslo. Veidekke is the Electrical solution what we can already do electrically today. battery? Where should the battery packs be AND THE ENVIRONMENT contractor for the work. All of the machinery However, according to Bakken, fossil-free This means using available technology located? And when should the machines STATNETT and equipment at the construction site as construction sites are not the long-term for the electrification of machinery and be charged? Bakken explains that we will well as construction transport run on fossil- solution either. They are a step in the right equipment at the construction site. But then have to be innovative when it comes to free fuel. direction. there is the long-term perspective: when organising procedures and logistics. But the can we carry out a completely emission- construction industry is on board. Two fossil-free construction sites “Fossil-free construction work is an free construction project. Senior Advisor Marte Bakken strongly “The R&D project is twofold. The first step important and necessary step, but it is “Parts of the industry are very progressive, believes that electricity is the long- was to assess how we could plan and not good enough. It isn’t really optimal. 1 excavator =165 cars and often more offensive than both term solution for an emission-free execute our construction work in a fossil- For example, many fossil-free fuels are The climate benefit from the electrification politicians and many of their clients. The construction site. free way, i.e. without using diesel or petrol. based on palm oil, which contributes to of construction sites will be tremendous. major industry players see the potential for This means that all machines are either deforestation of the rainforest. For the According to Bakken, the electrification long-term cost savings that electrification electrically powered or run on renewable, record: we use palm-oil-free, renewable of one excavator will correspond to the represents, and they want to be involved palm-oil-free and non-food-based diesel,” diesel with a sustainability certification in our electrification of 165 cars with a fuel in the transformation of the industry. says Marte Bakken, Senior Advisor for projects. But if Norway as a country were to economy of 5 L/100 km (56.5 mpg). The The industry is an important part of the Climate and the Environment at Statnett. significantly increase the use of renewable calculation is based on the assumption that solution,” concludes Marte Bakken.

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Researching the risks and costs The drones of the future of the largest power outages will manage on their own What characterises the most socially critical power outages, and what investments should we make to reduce the risk in a socio-economically profitable way? This is the focus of the At the Aura substation in Sunndalsøra, the future is here, in a hangar that looks a lot like a R&D projects “HILP” and “Interruption costs”. shipping container. “The goal of the R&D project is to develop an unmanned, autonomous drone that can carry out inspections at substations – and eventually also on power lines. Photo: Johan Wildhagen But really, our research is not primarily focused on developing drone solutions, but rather on gathering information in a more efficient and safer way than today.”

Photo: Thomas Negård Fortunately, Norway has largely been spared for such catastrophic events, unlike both Europe and the United States, which have seen numerous power outages with Those are the words of Thomas Negård, major social consequences. At the same who spends his days monitoring Statnett’s time, the power system is becoming power lines, but he is also the project increasingly complex because of amongst manager of the R&D project “Automated other increased integration of distributed flight and inspection of substations” which renewable power production, more is based at Aura substation in Sunndalsøra. extreme weather and a stronger connection Sunndalsøra is also home to Statnett’s between the Nordic power system and the drone school, and not far away, you can power systems in Europe. find Viklandet, another one of Statnett’s 160 Norwegian substations. “The benefit outweighs the cost” Drone, hangar and system It is precisely the socio-economic aspects of such events that are the focus of the Negård explains that the R&D project is a R&D project “Interruption costs”. collaboration between KVS Technologies, From the left: Analyst Eivind Norum and Economist Rolf Korneliussen. Nordic Unmanned and SINTEF and “All investments we make must have the consists of several components. “The drone best possible basis for decision making, itself is a modified Camflight FX8 that can fly Good security of supply for electricity is costs picks up where HILP leaves off, and and a correspondingly good basis for in winds of up to 15 m/s, withstand gusts of critically important to society. It makes focuses on the socio-economic costs,” the authorities when they process our 25 m/s and handle rain and snow while demands on those who plan and operate explains Statnett analyst, Eivind Ødegaard construction applications. Therefore, we it carries 5 kg of camera equipment in the power system. This is the theme of Norum. are dependent on showing that the project temperatures as low as -20 °C. the R&D projects “HILP” and “Interruption is economically profitable, that is, that the costs”. HILP stands for “high impact, low benefit outweighs the cost. You can’t spend “When the drone isn’t busy working, it probability”. SINTEF is leading the project, as much money on home insurance as it is docked in a mobile hangar that was The projects are closely linked. At a general but Norum is responsible for following up would cost to build a new house,” explains specially developed as part of this project. level, they are about how Statnett can on behalf of Statnett. Statnett economist Rolf Korneliussen. Inside, the climate is optimal for parking best prepare for the loss of power on a after jobs in harsh weather and for catastrophic scale – and how to invest An expanded toolbox Balancing act charging the batteries. There is room to society’s resources optimally and be socio- “Major and long-term power outages He explains why the projects are so closely economically profitable, in order to reduce would have enormous consequences for linked. the likelihood of this happening. society. But we need more knowledge to understand the underlying mechanisms “In brief, the essence of the matter is: what Low probability that cause this type of power outage. HILP costs should we accept for reducing the – major consequences is providing us with an expanded toolbox risk of an event that is basically very unlikely. “Highly simplified, we can say that the for describing this type of risk – and for It is about finding the balance between HILP project focuses on events with identifying, understanding, analysing, security of supply on the one hand and The drone should be able to fly in winds of potentially major consequences but with averting and handling such events,” investment costs on the other.” up to 15 m/s, withstand gusts of 25 m/s and low probability. The project on interruption explains Norum. handle both rain and snow.

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“When this system is fully developed and hopefully implemented, we envision a whole new way of performing monitoring and inspection.”

THOMAS NEGÅRD SENIOR ENGINEER STATION MONITORING/DRONES

emphasises that the real value is in the data that is collected and how that information can be used in relation to monitoring and The real value is the data that is collected and how it can be used. maintenance of substations and the power grid.

“The knowledge and solutions we are developing in one of the other drone R&D projects, AI-4-UAS [see separate article], where visual data is analysed using artificial intelligence, gives the maintenance a predictive quality. When the machines learn To date, the project has come so far that the drone is ready and operational, but it must be tuned and adjusted along the way. more about faults and the different stages of wear and tear, we will have a better idea of when to take action. The result is proper maintenance, where parts are replaced perform repairs and maintenance, and all as independently as possible, with people drone with various obstacles and we can fly when we have gotten the most out of them, communication and computer equipment taking control only in special situations.” in varying weather conditions – all to learn but before the risk associated with their use needed on the ground to carry out more about how it works so that we can increases due to failure or wear and tear.” operations is installed in the hangar. The Well underway develop the most independent system.” drone, which takes off from a small, mobile Thomas Negård says that the project has And then there is an important factor to platform that moves in and out of the already come so far that the drone is ready “When this system is fully developed and consider both in the project and in R&D in hangar wall, is operated from a separate and operational, but that it must be fine- hopefully implemented, we envision a general: “Research is expensive. We use control room which is located at Statnetts tuned and adjusted as they gain experience whole new way of performing monitoring a lot of time and resources developing monitoring centre in Sunndalsøra.” using it. The first hangar is in place, tested and inspection. An operator can either these solutions, and even though we and prepared at the station and the drone is activate a drone by selecting a substation learn a lot, we also need to focus on the “The final component is the software just back from one of the project partners, and then a pre-programmed route or task. cost in a long-term perspective. In other and systems for navigation and data where it was upgraded and fitted with Alternatively, the drone and the system can words, unmanned drones in combination collection. A substation is a dangerous new equipment. The work on testing will activate themselves based on a system of with, for example, analysis using artificial place for aircraft, with a high potential continue throughout the spring, towards the maintenance intervals. Once the drone has intelligence must become a cost-effective for experiencing a physical crash or summer. completed its task, it returns to the hangar activity for Statnett in the future. We mustn’t electromagnetic disturbances. Therefore, where it downloads information for analysis forget that these projects both have an we are developing solutions for navigation “In the phase we are in now, we are and is made ready for new assignments.” environmental upside and reduce the risk and pre-programmed flight routes and an working to program so-called “points of to people in relation to inspection, but advanced “sense and avoid” system that interest” (POIS), i.e. specific locations Safe and profitable when we calculate the bottom line we must continuously scans the environment around that we want the drone to fly to at the Although the project that Thomas Negård also see that it pays off financially. And I the drone and defines the area as safe or substation, and then set the cameras at and Statnett are participating in is primarily strongly believe that we will manage to do dangerous on an ongoing basis. In this the right angle to collect visual data. On focused on developing the drone, the that,” concludes Project Manager Thomas way, the drone should be able to operate the way to the POIS, we can challenge the hangar and the navigation systems, he Project Manager Thomas Negård has great faith in the project. Negård.

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“In the long term, the goal is for the solution and Analyses data from algorithm to learn independently, based on all the new data collected through new inspections drones with artificial and assignments.” ROLF BROCH PROJECT MANAGER intelligence STATNETT

With the help of artificial intelligence and data collected by drones, inspections at the substation and along the power line could be carried out completely without human “In the future, we must get more done with The solution will learn to learn in the same way as I do at the end of the intervention in the future. Powerful processors and advanced algorithms can analyse similar resources to what we have today, Tomas Collin of eSmart Systems says that day. Although the capacity is already at and we must work smarter in a world that is the work on AI-4-UAS is divided into two 100,000 images per hour – more than a 100,000 photographs per hour – more than one person can do in a year. becoming increasingly digital. This presents natural phases. “In the first phase, we must human being can get through in a year challenges, but first and foremost, the teach the solution to recognise the parts – the precision is always just as high.” Photo: eSmart Systems technological development offers enormous that need to be inspected at a substation opportunities for a player such as Statnett.” and along a power line. Ceramics, Knowing that Statnett maintains over insulators, switches, aircraft markers and 11,000 kilometres of high-voltage lines and These are the words of Rolf Broch, cords – these parts and components must 160 substations across Norway, it goes Senior Advisor at Statnett. He is central not only be recognised and kept separate without saying that a project which can to the work on one of two R&D projects from other parts, but the system must also eventually reduce the human effort in the researching the use of drones in the learn to understand the large variations in analysis work offers great benefits. “But we monitoring, operation and maintenance of wear and tear and possible faults. To that are also thinking about HSE in this context,” the power grid. end, we are using a large image database says Broch. “Today, much of the work is that Statnett has made available. done either by helicopter at low altitude or Everything should run by climbing the pylon. Helicopters have an automatically The next phase involves uploading the new obvious negative environmental impact, The project has been given the catchy knowledge and features to the intelligent while both types of inspection are risky name “AI-4-UAS” – artificial intelligence for assistant we have developed, which will – and drones represent a clear unmanned aerial systems. “We play the role conduct the actual analysis of the images improvement in both areas.” of a demanding partner in a collaboration captured during an inspection. When a run by the Norwegian company eSmart nonconformity is detected, this must be Photo: Rolf Magnus W. Sæther Systems in Halden. They have extensive tagged and marked with a pin on a map, so experience in developing solutions that use that the grid owner – in this case Statnett artificial intelligence to analyse vast amounts – can generate an error report to follow up of visual data in the search for deviations, on the problem. In the long term, the goal errors and wear and tear on the grid and is for the solution and algorithm to learn at substations. “Our collaboration will help independently, based on all the new data make these solutions even better suited collected through new inspections and to our needs and the needs of other grid assignments,” says Tomas Collin. operators,” says Broch. Enormous capacity and “The first goal of the project is to reduce important for HSE the degree of manual work needed to “In the AI-4-UAS project, the drone’s task is analyse the images from drone inspections, to function as an advanced camera stand,” but in the long term, we definitely have explains Rolf Broch. “But in the context of The AI-4-UAS project is researching the use of data analysis from sensors on drones in the monitoring, operation and maintenance of the power grid. greater ambitions. Along with the results the other R&D projects focusing on drones, of other R&D projects on drones, we must we are talking about an automated solution try to develop a tool where the drones and for inspection and monitoring – and an “In the future, we must get more done with software together comprise an autonomous advanced analysis program that finds faults similar resources to what we have today, solution that our technicians and engineers and wear and tear – well in advance of the and we must work smarter in a world that only need to consider when it is reporting situation becoming critical. A computer is becoming increasingly digital,” says Rolf errors or wear and tear.” program does not get tired and inattentive Broch, Senior Advisor at Statnett.

36 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 37 SMART GRIDS SMART GRIDS

“Simply put, we want to use machine learning and artificial intelligence to increase the precision level in our predictions of the difference between consumption and production of electricity two hours ahead.”

Using artificial intelligence to EIVIND LINDEBERG PROJECT MANAGER predict imbalance in the grid STATNETT

The power system is changing. Climate, cables, new technology, new energy sources “It’s not about eliminating the human factor “Impala addresses precisely these difference between a bank holiday weekend and changing political frameworks are creating both challenges and opportunities. One in relation to monitoring and balancing,” challenges as it becomes harder to control and a regular weekend, for example – challenge is how to ensure balance in the power grid. The Impala project is researching the explains Eivind Lindeberg, Statnett’s Project the imbalances that arise in the power grid and lots of other information that affects Manager for Impala, “but rather, it’s about in the wake of climate change, new and production and consumption.” use of artificial intelligence in the search for solutions to keep it as stable as possible. organising the work so that machines do less stable energy sources and new types what they can do better than people, and of consumption. Simply put, we want to use “Although we have not yet tested this Photo: Terje Borud the operators utilise their expertise where machine learning and artificial intelligence to solution ‘live’, we can observe that the they make a unique difference.” increase the precision level of our predictions machine is able to predict imbalance with of the difference between consumption and greater precision than current systems. Increasingly more demanding production of electricity two hours ahead. We also see that there is less variance in The frequency in the Nordic power system That is the key to maintaining balance in the prediction errors. It is better to make small is 50 Hz. At that point, consumption and grid, which is becoming increasingly difficult mistakes often than to make big mistakes demand are in perfect balance. However, for Statnett’s operators to calculate without sometimes.” since both the supply and demand are in the help of modern IT tools,” says Kathuria. constant flux, there is always a possibility Cooperation and automation of an imbalance. “The process of creating “The tool and the technology we have “We expect to test the solution on live balance starts in the Elspot market, where adopted is machine learning. The result data during the spring,” continues Eivind the players try to predict consumption will be a model that predicts the upcoming Lindeberg. “One goal of the project is to and how much they want to produce. imbalance in real time.” give the people who are currently doing Then, if prognoses change, they have the the balancing better support from the data opportunity to trade in the intra-day market Better at predicting imbalances tools and, in the long term, enable them until the power is delivered to the grid. Once “There are several ways to train a machine,” to leave the most routine parts of the job the power is delivered to the grid, Statnett is explains Karan Kathuria. “The simplest to the computer. Then we can use their responsible for maintaining the balance, by is to write the rules yourself. Then the expertise where it makes a real difference. means of activations in the balance markets. machine will never be able to do more than It is not realistic to envision a future where what you have taught it to do. Another grid balancing is completely automated. For “Currently, the operator manages to keep approach is to help the machine learn on example, if a situation may suddenly arise imbalances in check based on experience its own by supplying it with large amounts where a large power plant experiences a and gut feeling, but with limited support of structured data – in practice, this means failure. The machine would not have the from IT systems. However, because of well-formulated examples. This is called background or experiential data to enable climate changes, new and less predictable machine learning. Deep learning, which is it to solve the problem.” energy sources and new technology, the on everyone’s lips these days, is a separate job is more demanding today than it has area of machine learning that allows more “Impala is also part of a larger context been before. And it is not going to get abstract relationships to be found, but in where Statnett is cooperating with the easier in the future if we don’t find a smarter turn, this requires more data and is more other TSOs in the Nordic region to develop way to do it,” says Lindeberg. difficult to control.” a new balancing model with new market solutions that are based on automated Partner with a good idea “The Impala project uses machine learning processes to a much greater extent. “We were challenged by Statnett to come because the solution we are developing Statnett is also participating in the MARI up with good ideas for projects that we needs to be able to say something project – a European market platform could work on together,” says Karan about a future that is not always similar for exchanging balance energy across Kathuria, Project Manager at Optimeering. to history and because using the tool Europe. New technology and digitalisation, The project, which has been named requires a robust solution based on a solid of which Impala is an example, pave the Imbalance Predictions with Advanced understanding of how artificial intelligence way for increased automation of system Machine Learning (Impala), started works. We use processed data sets with operations,” concludes Statnett’s Project Karan Kathuria (left) and Eivind Lindeberg are project managers for the exciting Impala project, which is researching in 2017 and receives funding from the information on weather, wind, temperature Manager, Eivind Lindeberg. how artificial intelligence can contribute to new solutions for keeping the power grid as balanced as possible. Research Council of Norway. and calendar data – because there is a

38 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 39 SMART GRIDS SMART GRIDS

Anders Skånlund, Project Manager for SPANDEx and Neweps (left), and Knut Styve Hornes, R&D Project Manager, Statnett. “Both structural and random imbalances Frequent measurements are occurring more frequently than before, provide invaluable and the variances have information about the state also become larger due of the power system to more unregulated production. As a system operator, we need to find a solution to address this.”

KNUT STYVE HORNNES R&D PROJECT MANAGER STATNETT

Stability challenged by nuclear plant closures and low production at hydropower plants

Nuclear power still plays a role in the Nordic supply chain, with operational power plants in both Finland and Sweden. But several of the reactors are due to be shut down, including two reactors at Ringhals nuclear power plant in Sweden, which will be shut down at the end of 2019 and 2020, respectively. Nuclear power plants are controversial, but an FACTS undeniable advantage of the large production units is that they have a high rotational mass. There are a number of research projects aiming to solve the challenges of phasing in new, What is a PMU? Rotational mass acts as an inherent buffer renewable power and the need for better utilisation of the transmission system. A PMU detects voltage and current, against frequency variances. In addition and based on these measurements, we will have low inertia in the hydropower system due to import, typically at night in Photo: Terje Borud it calculates parameters such as frequency, active power (MW), the summer. Large production units, both reactive power (MVAR) and nuclear and hydropower, contribute to the Stability issues in the power system have it can help reduce the need for new the worst case, large frequency variances, other two are Nordic. Statnett has an phase angle. PMU boxes are often primary and secondary regulation, which been a topic of discussion since the 1920s. investments and even out power prices fluctuations or other faults can cause the important role in all three projects, and installed at cuts in the transmission bring the frequency back to normal. In the Frequency variances have always created between areas. system to collapse. Large parts of the grid the goal is to research methods that can system and provide real-time event of a failure or a change in production or consumption, the rotating mass and challenges for system operators and the could fall out and the country would be left identify variances as they happen and information to TSOs. primary regulation reserves in the system need for stable operation because the 50 Hz Knut Styve Hornnes in Statnett’s R&D in darkness. process them long before an operator has will counteract the frequency variance and balance is a premise that keeps the system department, like Eivind Lindeberg (Impala time to react. ensure a more stable power supply. from collapsing. project), points to changed consumption Operators discover hints of imbalances or “The turbo generators at the Swedish and patterns, the renewable revolution and faults within seconds, and they are usually Small PMU boxes are installed in the grid Finnish nuclear power plants have been More frequent and larger a greater number of interconnectors dealt with by automatic control mechanisms at the substations to measure frequency, “Initially, we are developing systems important buffers in case of variances. The imbalances as sources of increasing variances and in the system. But rapid changes bring new phase angle, voltage and current. The consisting of sensors that are spread out system has had enormous inertia which has greatly contributed to the damping of Back then, the instability was often due to imbalances, and the need for greater challenges that should be detected and PMUs record measurement data 50 times in the power system to provide real-time frequency variance. But now the Swedes are generators that were coordinated over long transmission capacity. managed quickly – for example, within a per second. These observations can then monitoring of large areas. This means that moving away from nuclear power – and we and weak transmission connections, while tenth of a second after they occur. be used to detect the variances. A PMU our operators will be notified much earlier will definitely notice the difference,” says the causes today are far more numerous “Both structural and random imbalances continuously monitors the grid and delivers of challenges in the power system. Later, Statnett’s Knut Styve Hornnes. “Sudden and more complex. The real-time collection are occurring more frequently than before, Records measurement data observations 24/7. This means that billions these solutions can be expanded to include reductions in production, such as tripping of measurement data can help solve these and the variances have also become larger 50 times per second of data observations must be recorded, automatic response and potentially lead to of large production units, will certainly hit stability issues and improve our utilisation of due to more unregulated production. This is the focus of the PMU projects stored and made available to applications a digital transformation in how we operate the grid harder than before,” he explains. the power system. As a system operator, we need to find a SPANDEx, Sparc and Neweps. The first that can calculate and automatically our grids,” says Anders Skånlund, Project If the power system can be better utilised, solution to address this,” says Hornnes. In follows a Norwegian standard, while the implement necessary actions. Manager for SPANDEx and Neweps.

40 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 41 THE FULL ELECTRIFICATION OF NORWAY THE FULL ELECTRIFICATION OF NORWAY

“We expect radical changes in the energy Norway – an electrical laboratory systems. This creates a for the rest of the world need for new knowledge, new solutions and Lene Mostue of Energi21 believes that the full electrification of Norway is within our grasp. research activity.” If we are to succeed, however, we need interdisciplinary collaboration, and we must dare to invest in research and technology development. LENE MOSTUE DIRECTOR Photo: Peter Gløersen ENERGI21

“We’re sitting on a golden egg here in in batteries on board ships. Norway now knowledge, new solutions and research Norway. Both in terms of infrastructure has the most electric ferries in the world, activity. The business community wants and energy resources. This gives us the according to a report from Marine Battery faster access to results. It is therefore opportunity to be a test arena – an electrical Forum. Avinor aims to make Norway the important for the research system to adapt laboratory for the rest of the world. We are first market where electric aircraft claim to this development without compromising digitalised, quick to adopt new solutions a significant market share, and to make the quality of the research results. and our population is quite small. We can domestic air traffic electric by 2040. The goal is to have as many research alter course quickly in the face of change. results as possible implemented and At the same time, we have strong expertise Such upheavals in the transport sector will commercialised,” says Mostue. and extensive industrial experience. This force changes in the power supply, with an makes Norway a good candidate for full increasing need for power and extensive She also believes that organisations should electrification,” says Lene Mostue, Director substations to provide access to energy. prioritise research activity and results to a of Energi21. greater extent. “I believe the transport sector and “When I am at conferences, I often hear FACTS According to Statnett’s calculations, the the energy sector must increase their top executives talk about the future, but full electrification of mainland Norway will cooperation in the future. And that’s just without mentioning the value of research About Energi21 require 30–50 terawatt hours. At the same one example. All sectors must have a and innovation. I think that’s a bit odd. The Energi21 is the Norwegian strategy time, it is expected that new wind power system perspective and we will need future is very closely linked to knowledge for research, development and will contribute 30 TWh by 2040. multidisciplinary collaboration between development. It is important to boost research commercialisation of new, climate- sectors if we are to succeed,” says Mostue. activity and integrate it into organisations, friendly energy technologies. “I think 2040 is a realistic perspective, and I so it’s not simply an isolated activity in the Energi21 provides strategic advice think much will have happened by 2030 for Research is the key business. Statnett is doing a good job in and recommendations to the Norway’s part. By 2040, I think we will have In January, Minister of Petroleum and this regard. They have a lot of research and authorities on research, development, and demonstration activities aimed come a long way. There is a lot happening in Energy Kjell-Børge Freiberg received a innovation activity going on, which seems well at developing new, climate-friendly many sectors these days. The development report produced by the consultancy firms integrated into the company.” stationary energy technologies. of climate-friendly solutions and new Impello and Menon Economics. It showed business models has higher priority than that energy research has created value of Must keep up before. Whether you build ship hulls or work NOK 16 billion since 2008. In the future, the When we ask the director of Energi21 to at Microsoft, you’re influenced by electricity potential is estimated at more than NOK give us some predictions about the future, and climate solutions,” says Mostue. 100 billion. she has a lot to say. System operation, FACTS consumption patterns, value creation and At the same time, she emphasises that “The report shows significant effects, information processing are a few key words. NOK 41.6 billion in emission reductions in the transport sector which would not have been possible to What pervades everything is digitalisation. research funding are a challenge that is having a major realise without a systematic and long-term Norway has various funding models for research and development. For impact on the energy system. Finding fully commitment to research, strong research “Digitalisation is the tool we must use to 2019, the government allocated a total electric solutions for long-distance transport, environments and an adaptable business succeed. If we are to succeed in having of NOK 41.6 billion, including funding shipping and aviation is a difficult task. community,” Freiberg said when he a secure energy supply in the future, it is for the SkatteFunn programme. The “Both infrastructure and battery capacity received the report. essential that we get effective digitalisation most important actors for Statnett need to be improved,” says Mostue. in place. The system will become in terms of allocations to the sector Mostue completely agrees, and emphasises increasingly complex and many players will are the Research Council of Norway, However, progress is also being made in that research has never been more have to work together. This requires more Innovation Norway, SkatteFunn, Enova and The Norwegian Water the transport sector. The UN’s maritime important than it is now. management and more monitoring. Then Resources and Energy Directorate organisation, IMO, aims to reduce you have big data management, artificial (NVE). greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent “We expect radical changes in the energy intelligence and machine learning. These by 2050. This has led to a marked increase systems. This creates a need for new are key success factors,” says Mostue.

42 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 43 Photo: Christian Søgaard Statnett SF, PB 4904 Nydalen, 0423 Oslo Statnett SF, 01 +47 23 90 30 00, Faks: +47 23 90 30 Tel: