Interview

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR - APAC & MENA | TBEA INDIA

MR. NAVEEN JANGRA

Q. Please Hightlight the importance of Static VAR Generator (SVG) technology in modern power grids, particularly in the context of the APAC and MENA regions?

Certainly, TBEA SVG solution represents the most advanced power quality and reactive power compensation technology available today. As an IGBT-based, third-generation reactive power solution, it offers numerous advantages, including enhanced reactive power capability, faster response times, and low harmonic distortion.

1. Voltage Stabilization and Grid Efficiency: SVGs excel at stabilizing power grid voltage, reducing system losses, increasing transmission capacity, and enhancing the transient voltage limit of the grid.

2. Rapid Response: They offer faster response times compared to traditional solutions, ensuring timely compensation for reactive power fluctuations.

3. Harmonic Suppression: SVGs have robust harmonic suppression capabilities, improving overall power quality.

4. Wide Operating Voltage Range: This feature contributes to grid stability by accommodating a broad spectrum of voltage conditions.

5. Low Power Losses: SVGs are designed to operate efficiently, minimizing power losses during operation.

6. Power Quality Improvement: SVG offer harmonics & flicker suppression features that significantly enhance power quality.

7. Voltage Support during Transients: SVGs provide critical voltage support during grid transient conditions like Low Voltage Ride Through (LVRT) and High Voltage Ride Through (HVRT), aiding in grid stability.

8. Dedicated Reactive Power Resource: By reducing the reactive load on inverters and wind turbine generators (WTGs), SVGs help extend the lifespan of these equipment.

9. Adaptability to Harsh Environments: As an SVG manufacturer, TBEA offers water-cooled solutions capable of operating at rated power in ambient temperatures up to 55°C.

10. Flicker Suppression: They also provide options for flicker suppression, enhancing power quality further.

 

Q. What are the hits and misses associated with integrating SVG technology into the existing power infrastructure in these regions? 

In fact, there are no significant challenges hindering the installation of SVGs in existing plants. TBEA leverages its extensive expertise in SVG technology, with over 50 GVAr installations worldwide. Our experience enables us to overcome challenges related to grid stability. We actively educate solar and wind developers, as well as grid authorities, about the benefits of implementing SVGs in renewable energy plants. Our product designs are tailored to meet or exceed grid code requirements. TBEA’s proactive approach, based on rich global experience, assists solar project developers in completing projects on time while maintaining high-quality standards. We offer training facilities for site teams and have a welldiversified service network. Additionally, we provide a complete range of products suitable for the utilityscale market.

 

Q. What is the focus area of your brand in Solar PV Inverter technology to highlight the unique energy needs of the APAC and MENA regions?

We are concentrating on several key areas:

1. Higher Capacity Inverters: Developing the largest capacity string and central inverters to reduce overall Balance of System (BOS) costs.

2. Modular and Reliable Products: Focusing on modular, redundant designs for enhanced reliability.

3. Compatibility with High-Capacity PV Modules: Upgrading fuse and switchgear sizes to match larger block sizes in high-capacity PV modules.

4. Universal Product Development: Ensuring compliance with the latest global grid code requirements, including LVRT, HVRT, FRT, and ZVRT for transient conditions.

5. Testing in Low SCR Ratios: Ensuring inverter compatibility with weak grid conditions by testing in low Short Circuit Ratio (SCR) scenarios.

6. Enhanced Thermal Handling: Our inverters have a maximum temperature limit of 62°C, which is higher than the industry standard, indicating better thermal stability.

7. Level IV Certification: Achieving Level IV certification for string inverters, placing us among the few to have passed this rigorous standard.

8. Use of Tier 1 Components: Utilizing top-quality components like Infineon IGBTs in the main conversion circuits of our inverters.

9. Optimized Auxiliary Consumption: Reducing losses through optimized auxiliary power consumption.

10. Plug-and-Play Solutions: Providing easy installation with reduced construction costs and a smaller footprint.

11. Superior Fault Current Rating: Our ACBs have better Ics and Icu ratings than other central inverters on the market, enhancing safety and protection.

12. Robust Component Sizing: Ensuring stable and reliable operation by allowing higher current and voltage margins in IGBTs, reducing stress and extending lifespan.

13. Support for Higher DC/AC Ratios: Accommodating higher DC to AC ratios for improved efficiency.

 

Q. According to you, what are the major factors that play a huge role in adopting of SVG Technology in the Renewable Energy sector, and how is TBEA evolving to meet the growing demand in the market?

Several factors are driving SVG adoption:

1. Dynamic Compensation Ability: TBEA’s SVGs can deliver up to 110% of their rated reactive power capacity.

2. Redundant Design: Ensuring uninterrupted operation and reliability.

3. Real-Time Monitoring: Individual IGBT temperature monitoring facilitates effective operation and maintenance.

4. Reduced Electromagnetic Interference: Optical coupling isolated driving techniques minimize network interference.

5. Environmental Adaptability: IP55 design enhances adaptability to various environmental conditions.

6. Temperature Control: Closed-loop temperature control ensures optimal system performance and reduces auxiliary consumption.

7. Frequency Modulation Technique: Controls harmonic output, reduces IGBT switching frequency, and lowers power losses.

8. Faster Response Time: Less than 5 milliseconds, providing immediate reactive power compensation.

9. Compliance with Market Requirements: Products are tested and compliant with new market guidelines and requirements. TBEA is positioning itself by continuously innovating and updating our products to meet these demands. Our global experience and comprehensive product range enable us to support the renewable energy sector effectively.

 

Q. What kind of future outlook do you see for SVG and Solar PV Inverter and how is TBEA going to march ahead in the game of the innovations?

We anticipate several key developments:

1. Continuous Product Development: Advancing product features and technologies in line with market and grid agency requirements.

2. Utility-Scale Solutions: Offering a complete range of products suitable for utility-scale markets.

3. Regulatory Compliance: Maintaining ongoing interactions with grid agencies and government operators to meet grid requirements and update product certifications.

4. Long-Term Reliability: Designing redundant and reliable products with a 25-year lifespan.

5. Adoption of Latest Technologies: Integrating the most recent technological advancements available in the market.

6. High-Capacity Products: Providing the highest capacity SVGs and inverters to help customers reduce BOS costs.

7. Strong Service Network: Developing a robust service network across regions and ensuring spare parts availability for 25 years.

8. Advanced Grid Studies Support: Supplying PSSE/ PSCAD models for grid studies, along with benchmarking reports and timely updates as needed.

9. Advanced Testing Platforms: Utilizing cuttingedge testing facilities to produce high-quality products and ensure customer trust.

By focusing on these areas, TBEA is well-prepared to remain at the forefront of technological advancements in SVG and solar PV inverter technologies, meeting the evolving needs of the market.