NYPA Press Release

Contact:  Lynne Smith | Lynne.smith@nypa.gov | 914) 346-4656

NYPA ENERGY INNOVATOR NEWS BRIEF

New York Power Authority to Develop and Test First-of-a-Kind Transformer to Increase Power Flow in Under-Utilized Transmission Lines

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) is collaborating on a research and development project to design, manufacturer and test a first-of-its-kind transformer that controls the power flow in the transmission system and reduces system congestion by navigating power towards underutilized transmission lines.

NYPA’s Research, Technology Development and Innovation group signed an agreement with Sen Engineering Solutions, Inc, of Monroeville, Pa, to advance the development of its Sen Transformer. NYPA will contribute $600,000 of the $1.1 million funding with the remainder coming from the New York State Energy, Research & Development Agency (NYSERDA) through its High Performing Grid Program.

“The Sen Transformer stands to be a game changer for utilities by increasing the energy flow in under-utilized transmission lines,” said Shayan Behzadirafi, NYPA’s lead engineer on the project.

Power systems have historically operated as one-way non-flexible routes of energy. Electric generators are located based on energy availability and environmental acceptability and not necessarily close to population centers and places where heavy demands are present. The power flow will follow the path of least resistance and is uncontrollable in nature.

More flexibility is needed, especially as more renewables, distributed energy resources and peer-peer energy transactions are being incorporated in the industry.  A fully flexible network must be able to control the so called “active” and “reactive” power on each line.  Current affordable power controllers only control the active power.

The Sen Transformer is a unique device that can control both active and reactive power separately and at a much more affordable cost.  This allows one to control active power flow in transmission lines and enables control of system conditions by having the reactive power flow in check. 

This research initiative is one of many technical innovations being undertaken as part of NYPA’s efforts to lead the expansion of New York State’s transmission grid. Under its VISION2030 strategic plan, NYPA is helping develop state-of-the-art grid infrastructure to relieve congestion and integrate renewables in the efficient delivery of clean power statewide.

For more information on the study, contact shayan.behzadirafi@nypa.gov.

About NYPA
NYPA is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 16 generating facilities and more than 1,400 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 70 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA uses no tax money or state credit. It finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on Twitter @NYPAenergy, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr and LinkedIn.