Poland’s Enea Operator pilots AI for power grid load forecasts
Image: Enea Operator
Polish DSO Enea Operator is implementing deep learning AI predictive models for distribution grid modelling.
The project, implemented as part of Enea Operator’s activities to modernise the energy infrastructure and introduce new solutions to improve the quality and security of supply, is aimed to contribute to improving the management of the distribution network.
Its basis is the use of proprietary deep learning algorithms from Polish software developer Affexy, with a focus on the most relevant data enabling continuous improvements that can improve the precision of forecasts and their adaptation to dynamically changing network conditions.
The project is predicated on the need to better adapt the grid to the changing conditions of the electricity market with growing renewable energies and for example new energy efficiency regulations.
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It is focused on three areas, of which the main one is the data analysis to enable understanding of the load on the network and identification of factors that affect the variability of that load.
Prior to that is the processing of the acquired data so that it can be efficiently analysed by the advanced AI models.
In the final step, a report and recommendations will be made with the conclusions from the analysis and suggestion of actions to optimise the data collection process and the quality of the forecasts.
Enea Operator anticipates that benefits will include a better understanding of the network load and the patterns that drive it – aspects that are critical for effective network management.
The project also introduces and pilots the advanced AI techniques, thereby testing the effectiveness of the algorithms in real-world conditions.
With the results and experience obtained, Enea Operator anticipates the implementation of a full-scale system.
Alongside this project, Enea Operator has concluded a PLN1 billion ($255 million) investment loan agreement with the European Investment Bank for distribution works.
These are to include the modernisation and construction of almost 8,000km of medium and low voltage grids, installation of 2.4 million smart meters, connections of 140,000 new customers, upgrading transformers by 633MVA and the connection of 4.3GW of new renewable generation capacity.
