Intelligent LV switchboards

In all buildings, regardless of the activity carried out inside, the distribution of electrical power must today satisfy ever-increasing needs for dependability and efficiency. Energy must be available not only to ensure the comfort and safety of users, but also to avoid the costs incurred by power failures. Electrical installations must therefore be monitored and be capable of reacting automatically to optimise power distribution. Information processing makes this possible. Already used in medium voltage industrial and public distribution applications, digital control and monitoring is now becoming a reality for low voltage installations as well. Starting with an analysis of needs, this "Cahier Technique" takes a close look at how LV power distribution can be managed. Particular emphasis is placed on decentralising and distributing intelligence in and around the LV switchboard. Several examples of such installations are also provided.