Hotline of power engineering specialists:
In preparation for the thunderstorm period in 2018, measures were implemented at IDGC of Centre - Smolenskenergo division to ensure reliable and uninterrupted operation of the power grid complex in the Smolensk region. The measures were developed based on the analysis of outages, technological violations of electrical equipment due to the impact of lightning overvoltage for similar periods of the previous year, with special attention paid to checking and testing of surge protection equipment of substation equipment, elimination of "dangerous places", the presence of which entails the development of consequences of technological violations due to lightning overvoltage. In addition, in order to ensure trouble-free operation, additional measures were taken to protect 6-110 kV power lines, 35-110 kV substations and 6-10 kV transformer stations.
Prior to the beginning of the thunderstorm period, Smolenskenergo’s specialists completed the inspection and analysis of existing overvoltage protection circuits, conducted a visual inspection of the condition of lightning protection devices and surge protection devices of distributors of 35-110 kV substation, 35-110 kV overhead transmission lines and 6-10 kV distribution networks. In accordance with the developed measures, engineering inspections of all substations of 35-110 kV, warehouses of combustive-lubricating materials, oil facilities and antenna-mast constructions were completed on time.
First responding and maintenance and repair personnel of the branch were instructed on actions in conditions of thunderstorms and emergency drills were performed to identify faulty places of power lines, as well as to eliminate violations of electricity supply to consumers.
Also, the state of readiness and sufficiency of wired, satellite, radio and cellular communications was checked.
The set of measures for the timely and thorough preparation of Smolenskenergo’s electric grid complex for the passage of the thunderstorm period should significantly reduce the risk of damage to the electrical equipment in the service area of the branch and ensure reliable and high-quality power supply to consumers in the Smolensk region.
