The increasing penetration of distributed generation (DG) power plants into distribution networks (DNs) causes various issues concerning, e.g., stability, protection equipment, and voltage regulation. Thus, the necessity to develop proper control techniques to allow power delivery to customers in compliance with power quality and reliability standards (PQR) has become a relevant issue in recent years. This paper proposes an optimized distributed control approach based on DN sensitivity analysis and on decentralized reactive/active power regulation capable of maintaining voltage levels within regulatory limits and to offer ancillary services to the DN, such as voltage regulation. At the same time, it tries to minimize DN active power losses and the reactive power exchanged with the DN by the DG units. The validation of the proposed control technique has been conducted through a several number of simulations on a real MV Italian distribution system

Distributed generation (DG) can offer an alternative planning approach to utilities to satisfy demand growth and distribution network security, planning and management issues. However, an appropriate framework is required to foster the integration of DG within grid network planning, thus avoiding potential inefficiencies in electricity supply infrastructure. In this work, in order to capture the effects of network investment deferral on DG expansion, different regulations for distribution network operators (DNOs) ownership of DG and how they influence the optimal connection of new generation within existing networks are examined. Using a multiyear multiperiod optimal power flow, DNOs preference for the siting and sizing of DG installation are analyzed

Many methods have been applied to examine the capacity of existing distribution networks to accept distributed generation (DG). One aspect missing from existing approaches is the capability to efficiently site and size a predefined number of DGs. Here, a hybrid method employing genetic algorithms and optimal power flow aims to overcome this shortcoming. It could be applied by distribution network operators to search a network for the best sites and capacities available to strategically connect a defined number of DGs among a large number of potential combinations. Some applications of the proposed methodology in the UK under current Ofgem financial incentives for DNOs confirmed its effectiveness in siting and sizing an assigned number of DG units

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Abstract:The increased spreading of distributed and renewable generation requires moving towards active management of distribution networks. In order to evaluate maximum wind energy exploitation in active distribution networks, a method based on a multi-period optimal power flow analysis is proposed. Active network management schemes such as coordinated voltage control, energy curtailment and power factor control are integrated in the method in order to investigate their impacts on the maximisation of wind energy exploitation. Some case studies, using real data from a Danish distribution system, confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed method in evaluating the optimal applications of active management schemes to increase wind energy harvesting without costly network reinforcement for the connection of wind generation.

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