Automatic load transfer (ALT) on the 11kV network is the process by which circuit breakers on the network are switched to form open points in order to feed load from different primary substations. Some of the potential benefits that may be gained from dynamically using ALT include maximising utilisation of existing assets, voltage regulation and reduced losses. One of the key issues, that has yet to be properly addressed in published research, is how to validate that the modelled benefits really exist. On an 11kV distribution network where the load is continually changing and the load on each distribution substation is unlikely to be monitored -reduction in losses from moving the normally open point is particularly difficult to prove. This paper proposes a method to overcome this problem and uses measured primary feeder data from two parts of the Western Power Distribution 11kV Network under different configurations. The process of choosing the different configurations is based on a heuristic modelling method of locating minimum voltages to help reduce losses.

This paper details the key outputs of the UK's first feasibility study of implementing the High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) cables in electricity distribution networks to solve capacity issues. This project is mainly aimed to study the technical and economic aspects of using superconducting cables and comparing them with the existing approaches, to determine whether a demonstration project of the superconducting solution is feasible. The University of Bath in collaboration with Western Power Distribution (WPD) has conducted this study, considering a previous capacity issue in WPD's network using both conventional and superconducting solutions.The first part of the study investigated the different aspects (installation procedures, power capacity, capital and operational costs etc.) of superconducting cables, comparing them with conventional cables. This identified the unique benefit of the high power density of HTS cables which could allow the usage of a Low Voltage (LV) Superconducting cable in place of a High Voltage (HV) conventional cable. In the second part of the study, a 132kV site in WPD's network that required reinforcement has been chosen for performing the feasibility study.As part of this study, a detailed Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) was conducted, comparing the superconducting solution with the conventional solution. The outputs from the Present Value (PV) analysis, that has been carried out as part of the CBA are discussed. The results of the CBA power system studies performed are presented, evaluating the impact that each solution has on the network power flows, losses and fault levels. Finally, based on the outputs from the CBA and future projections in the costs of superconducting cables, recommendations were made for the usage of superconducting cables in UK electricity distribution networks to solve network capacity issues. 

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