Ideas create the future - Innovation Report 2020 - Westnetz GmbH
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Ideas create the future. Innovation Report 2020
Ideas create the future. _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 01
An energy-charged,
inspired welcome to you,
“There is nothing in We are delighted and proud to present our innovation report this year, which
we have once again published under the title “Ideas create the future”. Because
the world so power- thinking, inventing and shaping the energy revolution never stops in our company.
Ideas are the driving force behind all changes – and this is particularly true of
ful as an idea whose the energy distribution grids of the future.
time has come.” As the French writer Victor-Marie Hugo stated many years ago: “There is nothing
in the world so powerful as an idea whose time has come.” With this in mind,
V
ictor-Marie Hugo, French writer we are happy to be inspired by you and our surroundings and, in return, we are
* 26/02/1802 in Besançon; † 22/05/1885 in Paris
eager to share our own inspiring future projects with you.
The demands on distribution system operators are growing, changing, and are
driving us to deliver top performance. The declared goal of decarbonisation
can only be achieved if we embark on new paths together with partners from
science and industry, establish future-proof technologies and make our grids
so intelligent that they can take control of energy flows almost independently.
Netzbetrieb 4.0 is an important watch word here – active grids for active times.
Gas/heat Electricity
The energy revolution continues to pose new challenges for us – and therefore
also the community in general. A reliable energy supply is part of the prosperity
enjoyed in our society today. We want to be a reliable partner and a future-
oriented employer for this. This includes encouraging our employees to get
creative and develop ideas to help shape the energy world of the future with
Gas grids Electricity Communication Artificial their own innovations.
(natural and bio- grids of the grids intelligence
gas, hydrogen) (e.g. fibre optics)
In this report, you will find out about the ideas inspire us, the projects we are
launching and the technologies we are using to be an active and forward-
looking part of the energy revolution. Every step – whether small or large –
Decentralised Supply to Industrial
towards a CO2-free energy supply by 2050 is important and much easier to
supply conurbations supply take together with cooperation partners. We are convinced of this.
At Westnetz, each individual faces the challenges on all levels: We work creatively,
sustainably and flexibly – these are the cornerstones of any new idea. In addition,
we give you an exclusive insight into the specific work carried out by our em-
Wind power Photovoltaics Biomass Hydropower Fuel cells
Fuel Power plants Combined Power-to-gas ployees. Because people here work every day to provide a high-performance
cells heat and
power plant Sustainability/ energy distribution grid, thus guaranteeing a reliable supply for their fellow
environmental people. Thank you for your work!
protection
I hope you have fun reading.
Smart grid AR/VR Energy Smart Maintenance/ Charging Storage Digitalisation
and cable workflow management control servicing iinfrastructure
nfrastructure technology Kind regards,
technology support e.g. with drones for e-mobility
Charging
iinfrastructure
nfrastructure Dr. Stefan Küppers
for eBikes
Managing Director Westnetz
Special Technology and Digitalisation
02 Ideas create the future. _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 Ideas create the future. _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 03
Contents CREATIVE. Page 10 SUSTAINABLE.Page 32 FLEXIBLE. Page 50
Ideas create Mettmann training campus –
a training centre of the future
SmartQuart –
the first real laboratory in the
Netzbetrieb 4.0 –
we are making the grid smart
the future. Page 12 energy revolution goes live Page 34 Page 52
Overview Inspection process with perspective: Wanderath is becoming e-mobile, Evaluation instead of touching –
Drones provide detailed images thereby protecting the environment with the Internet of Things, the
innovations Page 04
from the sky Page 16 and the distribution grid Page 36 physical world is becoming digital Page 54
Innovations at Westnetz – Machine learning supports E-mobility – the topic of the Better together –
creative employees are our key optimal use of material and people recent past, present and future innovative sector coupling
to sustainable success Page 06 Page 20 Page 38 with electricity and gas grids Page 56
The grid full of possibilities: Westnetz installers Responsibility from A to Z – Green hydrogen for the
CREATIVE. SUSTAINABLE. FLEXIBLE. are multi-talented project engineers are actively energy supply of the future
Page 08 Page 22 shaping the energy revolution Page 40 Page 60
Trainee@Westnetz – flexible development
opportunities and group-wide grids
are a key focus at our company Page 62
Project overview Page 24 Project overview Page 42 Project overview Page 64
Degree theses
from 2017–2019 Page 70
Contacts Page 76
Note to the reader
The terms employee, colleague, customer and similar
used in this report are representative of all genders.
04 Overview innovations _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 Overview innovations _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 05
Overview innovations
Constant growth in patent registrations Projects completed each year
45
20 40
35
Number of R&D and innovation projects Expenditure for R&D and innovation projects 15 30 21
25 16
90 21
10 21 20 12
80 17
15
70 10 13 5
8
5 9 10 18
60 17 15
7 12
5 5 11
8
50 25 41
26 34 0 0
40 24 1.7
21 5 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
30 Forecast Forecast
1.5 1.3 1.9
20 1.6
35 34 5.2 2.0 Number of patent registrations Completed innovation projects
25 29 28 30
10 2.9 2.6 2.3 2.4 Mean value Completed R&D projects
1.2
0 0
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Forecast Forecast
Number of innovation projects Innovation projects, cumulative costs in millions of Euro Increased value due to technological advantage Our innovation management is rounded off with fresh
Number of R&D projects R&D projects, cumulative costs in millions of Euro ideas from innovative people
The more we open ourselves up to new technologies and
cooperations, the more important it is for us to protect Through targeted campaigns in idea management, we bring
our technological advantage with patent registrations. out the innovative spirit of our employees and cooperation
Our extensive R&D and innovation projects make us fit Investments in innovations at a permanently high level With the support of the Westnetz innovation culture, the partners. We look for ideas on current topics such as
for the future number of patent registrations has increased continuously augmented and virtual reality, 3D printing, sustainability
Like the number of projects, the annual expenditure for over the past few years. The portfolio includes 93 patent and occupational safety, for example. Whether the impact
With 28 research and development projects in 2019, which R&D and innovation projects shows the extent of our registrations in total (status: 31/05/2020). is big or small, all ideas are welcome.
we are pushing forward in cooperation with innogy SE activities. In 2019, the expenditure reached a concrete
and other partners, we aim to set milestones in technology sum of 4.3 million Euro. For 2020, expenditures to a total Licensing for the production and distribution of Westnetz
and business field development. We have also developed of 3.2 million Euro are planned. The annual fluctuations in inventions is also on the increase, with seven licensing Your contact person for
an additional 41 innovation projects on our own for the expenditure can be explained in particular by special topics cooperations. This ensures the Westnetz supply with the idea management:
efficient distribution grid operation of the future. The and large purchases in individual projects. invented technologies in the long term and makes new
results are outlined in this report. revenues possible with our protected technological
advantage. This success is due in particular to new Thomas Schmitt
Innovation management project management is the single cooperations with manufacturers linked to the global
point of contact. It supports the project managers with market for distribution grid technologies. thomas.schmitt@westnetz.de
carrying out research, development and innovation projects. T +49 271 584-2144
A service from A to Z is offered – from supporting budget At Westnetz, you will be supported by patent coordinator
procurement and a necessary and on-time reporting, to Klaus Peters from the idea through to patent exploitation,
the proper completion of the project in SAP. The project as during the licensing process, for example. Get in touch
results and documentation are retained permanently and with him as early as possible.
are available for further project developments. Project You can reach us via the central
control is also the central contact partner for innogy SE email address or by telephone: Since 2015, we have successfully completed a total of
for calls for funds, allocation of resources and invoicing 125 R&D and innovation projects, 33 of which were
of costs. Your contact person for completed in 2019. The project results are used in the
Doris Miester patent coordination: innovation follow-up process in the specialist divisions,
T +49 231 438-1308 where their advantages can be exploited to their full
potential.
Jannis Kolodzig Klaus Peters
T +49 271 584-2017
klaus.peters@westnetz.de
DRW-T-I_Projektsteuerung@westnetz.de T +49 281 201-2471
06 Innovations at Westnetz _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 Innovations at Westnetz _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 07
Ideen&Innovationen.förder.fordern@Westnetz
Employees with a creative mindset
are our key to sustainable success “To increase our productivity and innovation at Westnetz, “Ideas create the future – and this is why the creative,
our actions must be instinctively helpful to our colleagues. innovative contribution of each department and every
This helps us to avoid behavioural pitfalls in everyday life employee’s ideas are needed so that Westnetz can
“For our customers, we are the solution for the intelligent energy system and increase our innovative performance.” continue to shape the energy world of tomorrow and
of the future”, and have therefore always firmly anchored the spirit of Rebecca Langenhof, Westnetz Innovation Manager proactively drive forward technologies of the future.”
innovation in our corporate vision. Our goal is to enable our employees to Martin Göbel, Westnetz Innovation Manager
establish Westnetz as a distribution system operator for a successful
energy revolution as a source and implementer of innovations. As a driving
force and promoters, our managers pave the way for unlocking the creative
potential of each individual – so that ideas can continue to create the future.
The energy revolution poses a number of challenges for distribution system
operators, where continuous development and innovations are essential We achieve this through a series of creative measures:
factors for the sustainable success of the company. It is important for • Interesting projects are provided as ideas and innovation
Westnetz to remain competitive in a dynamic market and competitive inspiration on the intranet.
environment, to shape the future energy supply system taking into account • Employees can submit their own suggestions to idea
social and environmental trends, while at the same time maintaining the high management at any time or in innovation management
quality of energy distribution. The level of innovation required for this can as their own descriptions.
only be achieved with the help of each individual employee. The key words are • Brief presentations or creative units raise awareness
WANT * CAN * MAY. Only when these basic requirements have been met will and motivate the relevant target groups at various events,
we be able to DO and innovate successfully. from trainees to managers.
• Regional contacts for digitalisation, innovation and new
While the day-to-day operation of the grid is based on efficiency and standard technologies have been established.
ization in order to ensure reliability of supply, shaping the future requires changes • Creativity and agile method workshops train employees
and progressive thinking – often outside the box. The key to success is the in creative thinking.
visions of employees, who, of course, also need to be given the necessary
freedom for creativity and imagination. Time and continuity are also important
factors for sustainable change.
Innovative. Creative. Active. WANT x CAN x MAY = DO
Westnetz focuses on technologies of the future and new ways of working in
order to establish intelligent and innovative solutions with partners from
science and industry. Within the group, we challenge and encourage our
employees to be open to new things, to think creatively and to network Employees and managers We want to provide our Managers create freedom As a company, Westnetz
effectively with each other. And the mission has been a success – the regular are continuously made employees with information and structures for innov supports both employees
employee surveys show a significant increase in the perception of a culture of aware of the importance of and methodological and ation. They put their trust and managers in their
innovationin the company (7 percent increase from 2017 to 2019). and motivated to come up social skills for ideas and in employees, support innovation activities
Your contacts on this subject: with ideas and innovations. innovations. They should inventors and innovators throughout the entire
Rebecca Langenhof We already support R&D and innovation projects and are actively involved in They should identify with live an open, cross-depart- and give them a high process: Generating ideas,
rebecca.langenhof@westnetz.de around 600 internal ideas for improvement every year. The aim is to develop our vision, be open to new mental exchange and use degree of personal respon- shaping projects, creating
the individual’s unique spirit of innovation at all times, to strengthen the things, embrace change and share their knowledge sibility to enable creative innovations with sustain-
Martin Göbel culture of innovation in the long term and to create a constructive working and show initiative. of creative and agile thinking in everyday work. able added value for the
martinantonius.goebel@westnetz.de atmosphere. innovation methods. group and its customers.
08 The grid full of possibilities _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 The grid full of possibilities _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 09
Ideas
ignite The grid full CREATIVE.
each other of possibilities
As a distribution system operator, Westnetz not only
like
ensures a reliable and sustainable energy supply, but
also connects regions and their people.
Meeting the ever-changing challenges in the interests
of the community requires a functioning, inspiring
SUSTAINABLE.
electric
network. Everyone is required to play their part, think
creatively, manage sustainably and act flexibly.
We pool the energy of our employees and use it
positively – for communities, for technology partners,
sparks.
for distribution system operators, for people. We
safeguard locations, expand communication and
charging infrastructures, ensure the supply reliability
and gladly share our expertise. Because: “Ideas ignite
each other like electric sparks.”
FLEXIBLE.
Johann Jakob Engel, German writer and philosopher
* 11/09/1741, † 28/06/1802 – in Parchim
10 CREATIVE. _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 11
CREATIVE.
We think creatively and create an intelligent network of the
future: Our employees work across departments, combining
their knowledge and ideas – the company is networking
with technology partners to establish innovative solutions
on the market. Drones are already replacing costly helicopter
flights, artificial intelligence is evaluating data for us and
virtual reality is increasing knowledge transfer in our new
training centre.
12 CREATIVE. Mettmann Training Campus _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Mettmann Training Campus _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 13
“A training campus for the energy world of tomorrow,
developed by experts for specialists: Together with
partners from science and industry, we can find answers
to familiar and not yet asked questions about the future
energy supply.”
Dr. Stefan Küppers Managing Director Westnetz
“I am delighted that Westnetz has chosen Mettmann as
its location for its new training campus. The Westnetz
future workshop is a great asset to our city and will
further strengthen Mettmann as a business location.
For everyone involved, I hope that the training campus
becomes a place of knowledge transfer and innovation.”
Thomas Dinkelmann, Mayor of Mettmann
Mettmann training campus –
a training centre of the future
From the future to the present – the Mettmann training campus makes it
possible
Picture above (from left): Harald Heß, In October 2019, Westnetz opened a state-of-the-art training campus for The basis for this is a new, varied switch system, which is equipped with different
Managing Director innogy Westenergie · its employees at the substation site in Mettmann. Since then, technologies plant types from different manufacturers. This creates a training grid from the
Dr Stefan Küppers, Managing Director
Westnetz · Thomas Dinkelmann, Mayor of the future have been tested, researched and experienced – for the digital low-voltage outflow to the substation bundled in one place.
of Mettmann · Thomas Walkiewicz, and networked energy world of tomorrow and beyond.
Computer Centre Manager Neuss · The aim is to train the grid installers for switching operations on the systems
Stefan Kreutz, Head of Technology ·
Deliah Hecker, Technology Department
The vision of the future: A new generation of technicians is facing completely in the gridarea – all under realistic but safe training conditions – so that work
new activities and work processes in the operational running of the energy can later take place under voltages of up to 30,000 volts without complications.
distribution grids. Even if many things appear unchanged at first glance – a
lot of steel, large substations, long overhead lines and compact transformer The training courses are an important basis for gaining switching skills – an
stations – digitalisation has come into play, particularly at the lower grid absolute prerequisite for day-to-day business, maintenance work and securing
levels. In the distribution grid of the future, a large number of sensors collect the supply quickly in the event of a malfunction. This is because the systems
data from the equipment and make it available wirelessly on an online platform. are still manually switched on site by the trained fitter.
Drones automatically and efficiently inspect the grids from the air and assess
possible sources of errors using artificial intelligence. For switching operations, Employees are also familiarised with the use of innovative technology during
colleagues on site are supported with live data and safety information via data the training course. The concept of the training campus relies on digital teaching
glasses using augmented reality. A big vision – admittedly – that is already methods and blended learning, a learning model in which computer-based
close to becoming reality in the Mettmann training campus. learning and traditional teaching are combined.
14 CREATIVE. Mettmann Training Campus _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Mettmann Training Campus _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 15
Discover and experience advanced technologies
For the first time, experienced speakers and technology experts are combining
and enriching the traditional training approaches with applications from the
field of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR). The real world is being expanded
with digital, computer-based content, allowing for more extensive learning
experiences.
“This training campus enables effective learning, digitised “The training campus brings people, digitalisation and Virtual reality can be used to train for those situations that would be too
teaching and prepares the installers optimally for the equipment together. I think that’s great, because it expensive, too dangerous or impossible to simulate in reality. For example,
practice and future technologies. And as a university allows us to learn how they interact and develop new Westnetz develops incident training for a large fire in the substation and
of applied science, we are proud to support this project. ideas together in an agile world.” trains safe conduct in a stressful situation. By consciously trying things out
The success concept for modern training lies in appli Harald Heß, Managing Director innogy Westenergie and making mistakes, participants gain greater certainty in dealing with
cation-oriented laboratories such as these, which provide problematic situations to ensure that they are optimally prepared in the event
the participants with the best possible preparation for of an emergency. VR is therefore a modern tool for immersive and effective
practice through the knowledge process.” learning, which can support and relieve the burden on training consultants in
Prof. Jürgen Bechtloff, South Westphalia University of the future.
Applied Sciences, scientific associates to the training campus
Making the invisible visible in an augmented reality
Alongside virtual reality, augmented reality is also used at the training campus
in Mettmann. The real world is augmented with digital, computer-based
content and additional information – via data glasses or smartphones. This
can be part of the training courses, but can also help with on-site operational
activities in particular if, for example, the plant condition and relevant sensor
data are projected live into the person’s own field of vision. If it is easy to see
at a glance whether the panel is energised or disconnected, this not only
supports the technicians in their work, but also ensures increased work safety.
A place of innovation
The new training campus has a clear goal: To enable and motivate already
well-trained professionals to apply and further develop new technologies and
ways of working. Knowledge and experience should be shared profitably with
all involved – by professionals for professionals. Together with partners from
science and industry, answers to familiar and not yet asked questions about
future energy supply can be found at this place of innovation.
The technologies in the training campus
The laboratory character provides an ideal environment The Internet of Things allows everyday and technical
for testing future technologies under real conditions objects to be networked via the internet. Things are
before they are installed on a large scale in the power monitored “intelligently” with embedded systems, You can find more information on
grid. abnormalities in technical systems are observed with the training campus in Mettmann here:
SUSTAINABLE.
the latest sensor technology, for example, thus To enable us to master all aspects of the energy
The technologies used in the training campus include increasing the scope for intervention. revolution, the development of new, sustainable
• Internet of Things – IoT (see P. 54) technologies is essential. The testing of innovative
• Digital twin (see P. 54) Contact Hanna Kammering and Stefan resources and new procedures is just as essential
• Sensors Kreutz with any questions about the as their integration into the day-to-day work of
• Automated drone flight (see P. 16) Mettmann training campus: employees and an active transfer of knowledge.
hanna.kammering@westnetz.de
s.kreutz@westnetz.de
16 CREATIVE. Automated overhead line inspection _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Automated overhead line inspection _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 17
Inspection process with perspective: Drones provide detailed images
from the sky
In the area of “automated overhead line inspection”, Westnetz is combining material for artificial intelligence (AI). They detect and analyse typical fault
two technologies that are both ready for the market and future-oriented. locations, such as defective insulators or faults in the conductor cable. The
The drone hardware meets software with artificial intelligence in order to drones could potentially be used to support vegetation management. This
make the entire process creative, sustainable and flexible in the future. would mean that cultivation work could be carried out in a need-based
approach.
Several types of drone are already being integrated into the routine inspection
process as a new tool. The system is currently used selectively on request in Westnetz currently has two test tracks. Typical fault patterns are installed on
a specialist area. a specially prepared, decommissioned medium-voltage line, at a length of
1.5km, on which the image analysis software can be tested. An operational
In the further process, image analysis software for automated error detection 110kV high voltage line also offers a 5km long track for testing the new
on high-voltage and medium-voltage lines is tested. The drone cameras – partly technologies. Further high-voltage test lines with lengths over 20km are
controlled by a modern VR goggle – collect extensive image data as teaching being prepared for testing automatic drone flights.
Benefits of using Optimization of intensive inspections and fault Increased occupational More flexible inspection Process optimisation Valid data basis and Expansion of the range of
drones in the analyses on overhead lines, cable fittings and safety by reducing the need of plants thanks to quick and more targeted use digitalization of the services – beyond our own
inspection process insulators, as well as inspection documentation to climb HV masts availability of drones of people and machines inspection process network18 CREATIVE. Automated overhead line inspection _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Automated overhead line inspection _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 19
Potential on all levels
Despite all the successes so far, the project is still in its infancy and has
great potential. In the future, drones will fly from substation to substation
and provide an overview of the condition of all lines and masts thanks to
automated analysis procedures. Data transmission and charging can then
take place in the substations via so-called drone in the box. As a first
SUSTAINABLE. step towards this big vision, drones will inspect overhead lines semi-auto-
The use of drones in the manual inspection process • Inspections from a safe distance and in special matically in the field of vision of the drone controller. The drone flies a
pays off on several levels: conditions (viaducts, rough terrain) are possible pre-programmed flight route in this approach, so that the employee can
• Inspections can be carried out flexibly and at shorter and masts have to be climbed less frequently, concentrate on the actual inspection.
intervals, increasing the reliability of supply even which also increases occupational safety.
further. • Drones can help to improve vegetation man- The advantages are as diverse as they are obvious: The inspection is not
• Drones provide a better view of some fault locations – agement, minimize the impact of construction only easier, but also faster. Hard to reach masts or pipes can be checked
such as insulators – and valuable data for future sites on nature and reduce costs and travel. without much effort. And in the event of a malfunction, an initial impression
projects. • Drones can be used as an alternative to the of the situation can be obtained quickly, for example if a tree has fallen on
© eSmart
helicopter in individual cases (e.g. in conurbations). a line during a storm.
FLEXIBLE.
The easy transportation of the drone in the installer’s
vehicle ensures rapid availability. This allows plants to Automated drone flights and image
be checked flexibly, which conserves resources, optimises recognition are growing markets.
the scope of construction sites and machine use, and
saves unnecessary work. The inspectiontime is reduced The motivation: With the help of these
in part, but the range is increased because even rough innovative technologies, Westnetz –
terrain can be monitored easily. together with sister companies under
the umbrella of the new E.ON – aims to
Digitalization of the inspection process and optimised
documentation also lead to an increasingly compre- play a pioneering role in the field of
hensive data basis that can be used for further overhead line inspection.
applications and projects.
Due to the promising prospects, an expansion of the Westnetz drone fleet is
planned for 2020. The regional centres are to be equipped with twelve different
types of drone for large-scale use, which are to be tested specifically for the
inspection of medium voltage lines. Eight special drones which can provide Read more about automated
particularly detailed photographs are also to be used for the intensive inspection overhead line inspection here.
of high-voltage lines. A defined BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line Of Sight) flight is
also planned, i.e. a drone flight outside the visual contact and without the
active involvement of the pilot – a milestone of the overall vision to be
achieved in cooperation with the sister companies. Your contacts on this subject:
Frederik Puhe
Today, the drones are also used as a technical service for other distribution frederik.puhe@westnetz.de
system operators. Westnetz likes to make its extensive expertise and
technological progress available on a national level, thus allowing other grid Matthias Schmidgen
operators to benefit from the advantages. m.schmidgen@westnetz.de20 CREATIVE. Machine learning _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Machine learning _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 21
What do wooden masts and algorithms have in common? Small mast – great benefit
Applying future-proof technologies
Machine learning supports Optimized maintenance of equipment
optimal use of material Improved budget and deployment planning
and people Minimize inspections while maximizing expertise
Westnetz is already successfully testing the innovative principle of machine Asset management and maintenance planning are provided with an effective
learning in the inspection and repair of wooden masts in the distribution tool that reliably predicts the future condition of the masts and, in particular,
grid area. In this approach, an artificial system ‘learns’ from existing data the end of their service life. In this way, maintenance, renewal and replacement
using an algorithm to make predictions for future developments. measures can be optimised and work on site can be reduced.
In the specific use case, characteristics and status information of the wooden Wooden masts today – tomorrow the entire grid
masts (such as age, type of wood and any damage) are intelligently linked to Experts from various specialist fields are responsible for the successful imple-
publicly available data (such as type of land use, groundwater conditions or mentation of the machine learning approach: Asset managers, wooden mast
possible flood plain). The algorithm detects the correlation between the experts, IT specialists and data scientists are working together to establish
condition of the mast and the influencing factors, and can thus infer the Westnetz as the innovative distribution system operator of the future. Where
service life of other wooden masts based on the inspections carried out in machines and computers currently take over the classification of wooden
the past. masts for humans, tomorrow they will be used to achieve optimal maintenance
of all mass equipment. This not only saves time and costs, but also allows the
specialists to combine their expertise for further future-orientated topics. In
addition, Westnetz can act as a competent point of contact for other distri-
bution system operators for assessing equipment.
Figures, data, facts
Using this advanced machine learning process, more than 200,000 wooden
SUSTAINABLE. masts can be categorized with an accuracy of over 90 percent and their service
The maintenance and renewal measures can be life assessed in real time.
optimised based on the service life predictions for
each individual mast – in particular by bundling the
work in the respective line sections. The measures
are planned and implemented more efficiently and
cost-effectively by reducing the number of deploy-
ments.
FLEXIBLE.
The service life of the masts can be assessed more
effectively in the future. Adapted and much more
efficient inspection cycles can be derived from this.
Your contacts on this subject:
Andreas Grohs
andreas.grohs@westnetz.de
Dirk Herweg
dirk.herweg@westnetz.de22 CREATIVE. Multi-talented installers _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Multi-talented installers _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 23
From sleeve ditches to augmented reality
Customer arena
Westnetz maintains an open internal dialogue between the distri-
Westnetz The energy industry is changing more than ever. The stated objectives:
Decarbonisation, decentralisation and digitalisation. It goes without saying
bution grid operation and the training department. This is the only
way for the company to ensure that the trained specialist are fit
technicians
that Westnetz is making its work processes just as flexible and future- for the energy industry of the future at all times.
oriented and is adapting them to the requirements of tomorrow.
The expectations of distribution grid operators are first discussed
are multi According to Focus Money, the company is one of the best training companies
in Germany – not least thanks to its modern and innovative training content.
Grid technicians start their training as electronics engineers for industrial
in a so-called customer arena: What should and must a grid techni-
cian of the future be able to do? The trainers then weigh up the
requirements against the possibilities with the training managers
talented technology in accordance with the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK)
professional model, but end it as true all-rounders.
and the objectives of the training are finally defined in a creative
exchange between all participants. This includes not only profes-
sional expertise in dealing with modern technologies, but also
Westnetz places particular importance on enriching the technical profession cooperation between colleagues. Freshly trained installers should
with modern elements. However, practice remains the basis – good, tried and support older colleagues in dealing with the digital world (new
tested and indispensable. Technicians get their hands dirty, learn how to use media and devices such as tablets) and, in turn, benefit from their
the right tool in the relevant application case and even end up in the sleeve many years of experience.
ditches themselves on occasion. They also use tablets instead of binders or
receive live data projected into their field of view via augmented reality
glasses during training courses for the profession of switching installer.
It is not only handling new technologies that is part of everyday professional Installation or controlling drones? We can do both. More information on training at
life for Westnetz technicians – the transfer of knowledge also takes place The profession of grid installer is constantly changing and is moving towards Westnetz is available here:
creatively and progressively via the Internet or learning platforms during the future together with the energy industry. Westnetz not only trains its
training and further education. The Internet of Things relating to the modern professionals comprehensively and in the most modern way, it also actively
distribution grid (e.g. controllable secondary substations, new data transmission supports them throughout their professional lives with training, courses and
standards for grid automation) is also one of the important learning content further training. So a technician may suddenly find himself working as a drone
here. controller – modern multi-talented people in the energy grid.
Today, digital process support simplifies many workflows, such as resource
“In the modern, fast-paced world, our future technicians planning, the dispatch of work materials or inventory management. Circuit
have to constantly adapt to changes and technical manuals are available online, instead of a briefcase, a tablet is the constant
developments. In order for us to be able to take these companion for on-site operations. The pace is increasing and the working
into account within the training phase, a timely exchange environment is constantly changing. This also requires courage. Technicians
between the company and the training system is essential. at Westnetz do not rely solely on the specialist knowledge they have already
Only together can we provide the necessary knowledge.” learned, but actively adapt to the demands of the future. They are willing to Your contact on this subject:
Michael Böckelmann, Head of Training Region North East continue learning throughout their career in order to acquire new digital and Dirk Schulte, Head of Training and
analogue tools to support distribution grid operations and to apply them in Further Technical Training
everyday life. dirk.schulte@westnetz.de
SUSTAINABLE.
The energy revolution entails many new require-
ments – in terms of climate protection, low-emission
energy production, electromobility and much more.
The resulting, ever-increasing workload and com-
plexity can only be mastered with new processes
and technical support. The key task is to establish
and use modern communicationtechnologies (such
as WLAN, Lora WAN, 5G data transmission) in
order to make the necessary decentralised energy
supply of the future possible.24 CREATIVE. Project overview _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Project overview _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 25
CREATIVE. Project overview
K.1 Automated overhead line inspection (AOI) 26
K.2 BliTras – reactive power concepts in light of expansion measures 26
K.3 Corona-copter – test use for the evaluation of new damage detection methods 26
K.4 CoSMiC-Eye@Westnetz – vegetation management of line routes 26
K.5 Plastic roof stands (GRP) – development and trial operation 26
K.6 Digital timesheet – more efficient fulfilment of documentation requirements 27
K.7 Digital station book – an overview of everything, from anywhere, in the future 27
K.8 Dynamic simulation of medium and high-voltage grids and generation plants 27
K.9 Electronic locking system – electronic safeguarding of substations 27
K.10 Gridcast – grid status forecasts with weather and consumption data 27
K.11 i-Autonomous – protection and automation in medium and low voltage 28
K.12 Injection points on odorization plants – the odorant requirements are reduced 28
K.13 InnoSys 2030 develops innovative system management solutions 28
K.14 Interactive Dashboard 2.0 – regional innovation screens 28
K.15 IoT@Mettmann – test environment for IoT sensors at the Mettmann training campus 28
K.16 Insulated low-voltage, high-performance bladepickups for power unit supply – small series production 29
K.17 Load profile generation of secondary substations with billing data of all meters 29
K.18 Multi Device Gateway Light – making the local grid transparent at an affordable price 29
K.19 Grid values for efficient smart meter rollout 29
K.20 NetzVER – grid operation using virtual and augmented reality 29
K.21 Low-voltage DC connection point up to 200kW 30
K.22 Optimised intelligent substation – new technology and operational concept 30
K.23 Optimised load profiles dependent on daily parameters reduce cost risk 30
K.24 Recloser – remote-controlled switchgears for shorter supply interruptions 30
K.25 Smart Navigator 2.0 enables faster fault localisation 30
K.26 Mettmann training campus enables research into new technologies 31
K.27 TRoLL 2.0 – determination of the usage durations of standard load profiles commercial customers 31
K.28 Supply scenarios in urban areas – assessment of transformation paths 31
K.29 Patent coordination webinar – successes.invent@westnetz 3126 CREATIVE. Project overview _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Project overview _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 27
Automated overhead line inspection (AOI) K.1 Digital timesheet – more efficient fulfilment of documentation requirements K.6
frederik.puhe@westnetz.de and m.schmidgen@westnetz.de rebecca.langenhof@westnetz.de
· Research & development This project identifies, tests and evaluates available technologies to prepare · Innovation project Replacement of the many-staged, highly manual process for recording hours
· 01/01/2019 to 31/12/2020 and conduct fully automated drone flights over defined overhead lines. At · 01/09/2018 to 30/06/2020 in funding projects with a fully digitalised, more efficient and convenient
· Cooperation partners: the same time, automatic error detection is to be evaluated using intelligent · Cooperation partners: process based on an app and Blockchain.
Sharper Shape, WingCopter, image processing software, which, among other things, integrates the drone d.lab, Innovation Hub,
Volocopter, innogy SE G&I as a tool in the manual inspection process. innogy SE G&I
BliTras – reactive power concepts in light of expansion measures K.2 Digital station book – an overview of everything, from anywhere, in the future K.7
theresa.noll@westnetz.de daniel.hoelker@westnetz.de
· Innovation project In some construction phases, inadmissible voltage range deviations are · Innovation project The station book, which is currently physically located within a substation,
· 07/01/2019 to 30/06/2019 possible. The evaluations indicate the need to plan for additional reactive · 01/02/2019 to 31/06/2021 for documenting the transfer of disposals of individual parts of the substation,
· Cooperation partner: powerprovision. Optimal reactive power supply concepts were evaluated will be brought into the digital age. In the future, technicians will be able to
ef.Ruhr and recommended in the variant comparison. This ensures supply reliability view and make entries on the move using tablets and smartphones. The
in all construction phases and leads to findings for future construction rollout is planned for 2020.
measures.
Corona-copter – test use for the evaluation of new damage detection methods K.3 Dynamic simulation of medium and high-voltage grids and generation plants K.8
rolf.zander@westnetz.de thomas.notarantonio@westnetz.de
· Innovation project As part of the project, an innovative camera is being developed to make · Research & development Development of dynamic simulations of switch-on, switching, switch-off
· 01/05/2017 to 31/12/2019 radiant corona discharges measurable and visible in the UV range. This · 01/01/2017 to 30/06/2019 processes, of error scenarios and the stability behaviour in electrical grids
· Cooperation partner: allows information and conclusions about faults in high-voltage systems · Cooperation partners: with a high proportion of local generation plants. Detailed knowledge of
University of Kassel, PCO AG to be recorded more quickly. Integration of the camera system in the RWE Generation SE, the dynamic processes in the distribution grid was gained and new and
“automated overhead line control” concept is being prepared. Lessons innogy SE G&I improved models were developed to calculate them and implemented in
learned from the corona copter pre-study will be adopted and further the standard operation at Westnetz.
developed.
CoSMiC-Eye@Westnetz – vegetation management of line routes K.4 Electronic locking system – electronic safeguarding of substations K.9
jens.viefhues@westnetz.de and gabriela.sattur@westnetz.de hanna.kammering@westnetz.de and frederik.puhe@westnetz.de
· Research & development CoSMiC-Eye is the first satellite-based early warning system to prevent · Innovation project In order to close possible security gaps when mechanical keys for accessing
· 15/09/2019 to 31/03/2020 external influences on gas lines by third parties. Such external influences · 01/01/2019 to 31/12/2019 substations are lost, an electronic, online access control system is being
· Cooperation partners: may occur, for example, as a result of civil engineering works and other piloted in the Bedburg substation. Various access systems are being con-
Orbital Eye BV, innogy SE G&I construction measures in the immediate vicinity of the line. Through the sidered and the process of activating the employee ID card will be tested
operational use in the Westnetz high-pressure gas grid, the performance for feasibility in a possible rollout.
of the system was trained and further improved.
Plastic roof stands (GRP) – development and trial operation K.5 Gridcast – grid status forecasts with weather and consumption data K.10
dirk.herweg@westnetz.de philipp.saeuberlich@westnetz.de
· Innovation project Development of innovative plastic roof stands (GRP) – including new cable · Research & development The Gridcast project aims to map the future expected changes in the supply
· 01/06/2019 to 30/09/2020 and roof fixing systems with integration of the fibre optic cable house con- · 01/05/2017 to 30/04/2021 of wind and solar systems and to provide tools that enable safe grid inte-
· Cooperation partners: nection. Cost reductions are expected when a fast Internet is set up by · Cooperation partners: gration. As part of this process, an innovative system and innovative tools
Syna, Pfalzwerke, avoiding civil engineering and reducing roof stand corrosion damage. An Fraunhofer IEE, for the application-specific forecasting of renewable generation is being
innogy SE G&I insulating design increases operational safety. innogy SE G&I developed.28 CREATIVE. Project overview _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Project overview _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 29
i-Autonomous – protection and automation in medium and low voltage K.11 Insulated low-voltage, high-performance bladepickups for power unit supply – K.16
frederik.puhe@westnetz.de small series production frank.debus@westnetz.de
· Research & development As part of the project, a modular-autonomous protection and automation · Innovation project Production of the insulated low-voltage, high-performance blade pickups
· 01/10/2019 to 30/09/2022 system will be piloted and evaluated in a selected Westnetz grid area. The · 11/05/2018 to 30/06/2019 (machining and/or 3D print) in small series (240 units). Packing with cable
· Cooperation partners: focus here is on the separation of hardware and software. The results will and multi-contact plug. The insulated low-voltage, high-performance blade
TU Dortmund, KoCos, EWF, serve as the basis for creating an industry standard for cost-effective in- pickup is patent pending. Experience is gained through use in operation
OFFIS, H+S, innogy SE G&I tegration of protection and automation systems into the distribution grid and, where applicable, the product is marketed in cooperation with manu-
with minimal work involved. facturers and suppliers.
Injection points on odorization plants – the odorant requirements are reduced K.12 Load profile generation of secondary substations with billing data of all meters K.17
sascha.niebialek@westnetz.de janina.preuss@westnetz.de
· Research & development Due to the sometimes unexpectedly high odorant consumption, this project · Innovation project The aim is to generate new load profiles for each secondary substation for
· 01/01/2016 to 30/06/2019 was launched to test the effectiveness of different injection nozzles under · 01/06/2019 to 31/08/2020 improved grid calculation of medium-voltage grids. This is done with billing
· Cooperation partners: realistic conditions. The results of this project led to five patent applications data for all meters behind the secondary substation, the assigned load
DBI-GUT, innogy SE G&I and new collaborations for the manufacture and market launch of a com- profiles and the measured load curves (RLM).
pletely redesigned odorization nozzle technology.
InnoSys 2030 develops innovative system management solutions K.13 Multi Device Gateway Light – making the local grid transparent at an affordable price K.18
philipp.saeuberlich@westnetz.de daniel.hoelker@westnetz.de
· Research & development The BMWi-funded InnoSys2030 project develops innovative system man- · Innovation project The Multi-Device Gateway Light from Lemonbeat enables data, such as
· 01/10/2018 to 30/09/2021 agement solutions for the higher burden on existing grids with a prospective · 01/04/2019 to 31/08/2020 the electricity and voltage of a secondary substation, to be read out via
· Cooperation partners: implementation date of 2030. The challenges and higher load potential of Modbus and sent to ESP.IoT (E.ON Service Platform for Internet of Things)
BMWi, 18 associated partners the transmission and distribution grids in Germany are taken into account via a built-in mobile communications modem. There, the data can be pre-
here and tested in practice in corresponding field tests and demonstrators. pared, analysed in detail and used by all interested specialist departments.
Interactive Dashboard 2.0 – regional innovation screens K.14 Grid values for efficient smart meter rollout K.19
oliver.niehof@westnetz.de martin.smietana@westnetz.de
· Innovation project Living a culture of innovation and increasing innovation performance – every · Innovation project In this project, we will work with innogy Metering GmbH to identify synergies
· 15/11/2019 to 30/12/2020 employee must play their part. For the transparent presentation of innov · 01/10/2018 to 31/03/2020 with the legally required smart meter rollout, stipulating the replacement
· Cooperation partner: ation initiatives, centrally managed content is shown on regional touch- · Cooperation partners: of the conventional measuring equipment on the grid connection points.
Immersion7 screens, which every employee can experience digitally and interactively. innogy Metering, PPC (iMsys)
This encourages active participation in the initiatives: Anyone can become
a submitter of ideas in idea management, an inventor in the patent system
or a project manager of innovation projects.
IoT@Mettmann – test environment for IoT sensors at the Mettmann training K.15 NetzVER – grid operation using virtual and augmented reality K.20
campus marc.schumacher@westnetz.de deliah.hecker@westnetz.de
· Innovation project At the Mettmann training campus, the training rooms and the active part · Research & development Virtual reality training courses are intended to teach how to handle hazardous
· 15/07/2020 to 31/12/2020 of the substation are used to develop technologies for implementing the · 01/04/2019 to 31/12/2020 situations and the work on new equipment. The aim of the project is to
Internet of Things. Hardware, such as temperature sensors, as well as the · Cooperation partners: implement innovative VR training courses for the correct procedure in the
transmission, saving and evaluation of the recorded data, are tested and innogy SE G&I event of a fire in the substation and for the commissioning of a digital sec-
application cases are identified and analysed. ondary substation (digiONS). A mobile app will also support the operational
work on digiONS in the future.30 CREATIVE. Project overview _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 CREATIVE. Project overview _ Westnetz Innovation Report 2020 31
Low-voltage DC connection point up to 200kW K.21 Mettmann training campus enables research into new technologies K.26
joachim.pestka@westnetz.de hanna.kammering@westnetz.de and s.kreutz@westnetz.de
· Research & development In the Bedburg climate protection estate, a 150kW supercharger was supplied · Innovation project Grid operation and research are being brought closer together in the new
· 01/03/2019 to 31/03/2020 directly from 800V DC for the first time. For this purpose, the rectifier · 01/07/2018 to 31/12/2019 premises alongside the Mettmann substation in order to optimally prepare
· Cooperation partners: was moved from the charger to the intelligent secondary substation, employees for work in practice and the new technologies of the future.
innogy SE G&I which now generates reactive power in a phase-selective manner as an The training campus enables effective learning and gives colleagues the
“active secondary substation” and balances the active power. It was possible skills to apply and develop new technologies and ways of working.
to reduce the charger to the DC chopper controller because, unlike wall
boxes, superchargers supply the vehicle with direct current.
Optimised intelligent substation – new technology and operational concept K.22 TRoLL 2.0 – determination of the usage durations of standard load profiles K.27
christoph.walgenbach@westnetz.de commercial customers stephan.heckmann@westnetz.de
· Innovation project As part of the “AutoONS” project, a standard for a remotely controlled · Innovation project As part of the TRoLL project, a concept for redefining the usage durations
· 01/11/2017 to 31/01/2020 secondary substation including measurement transmission was developed. · 01/02/2018 to 31/12/2022 of SLP commercial customers was developed. During this project (TRoLL
The technology concept will be developed further during this project. The 2.0), the concept will be updated and implemented with regard to techno-
aim is to significantly simplify the commissioning and maintenance process logical developments. A representative customer sample will be equipped
of the station (Plug & Play), thus reducing costs. The expanded objectives with suitable meter technology to determine their load profile and thus
can be divided into three themes: Processes, technologies, opportunities. the annual usage duration.
Optimised load profiles dependent on daily parameters reduce cost risk K.23 Supply scenarios in urban areas – assessment of transformation paths K.28
alina.bleier@westnetz.de klaus.peters@westnetz.de
· Innovation project The load profiles used as standard in the market until now are outdated. · Innovation project The aim of this work is to develop transformation paths in order to achieve
· 12/01/2018 to 31/08/2019 This means that they have structural faults. In the project, the wealth of · 01/01/2017 to 31/12/2019 the climate protection goals using the example of a district in a German
profiles is being optimized with data analysis methods. The new wealth of metropolis. The study will be assessed based on different technology
profiles models the consumption behaviour of customers more accurately paths with regard to cost, emissions and operational behaviour, taking into
and the quantity fluctuations in the difference balance time seriesare sig- account different building renovation concepts and a high proportion of
nificantly reduced. This reduces the cost risk due to thevolatile balancing battery-powered electric vehicles.
energy prices.
Recloser – remote-controlled switchgears for shorter supply interruptions K.24 Patent coordination webinar – successes.invent@westnetz K.29
helmut.maassen@westnetz.de klaus.peters@westnetz.de
· Innovation project Reclosers are remote-controlled switchgears used in MV overhead line · Innovation project Creation of webinar videos to develop inventor awareness and increase
· 01/02/2018 to 31/12/2019 grids to reduce prolonged supply interruptions in the event of atmospheric · 01/11/2019 to 29/02/2020 the number of patent applications
· Cooperation partners: influences. In the Rauschermühle regional centre, devices were tested in
Siemens, innogy SE G&I normal operation and assessed for suitability. In rural areas in particular,
they can help reduce fault resolution times and thus improve the reliability
of supply.
Smart Navigator 2.0 enables faster fault localisation K.25
wesam.moshi@westnetz.de
· Innovation project The remotely reporting Smart Navigator 2.0 short circuit indicator increases
· 01/03/2019 to 31/12/2019 observability in the MV overhead power grid. The sensor information speeds
up the troubleshooting process for grid management and operation, helping
to reduce downtime. In addition, voltage and current values are measured
and transmitted.You can also read
