The widespread use of distributed generation (DG), which is installed in medium-voltage distribution networks, impacts the future development of modern electrical systems that must evolve towards smart grids. A fundamental topic for smart grids is automatic distributed voltage control (ADVC). The voltage is now regulated at the MV busbar acting on the on-load tap changer of the HV/MV transformer. This method does not guarantee the correct voltage value in the network nodes when the distributed generators deliver their power. In contrast, the ADVC allows control of the voltage acting on a single generator; therefore, a better voltage profile can be obtained. In this paper, an approach based on sensitivity theory is shown to control the node voltages regulating the reactive power injected by the generators. After the theoretical analysis, a numerical example is presented to validate the theory. The proposed voltage regulation method has been developed in collaboration with Enel Distribuzione S.p.A. (the major Italian DSO), and it will be applied in the Smart Grids POI-P3 pilot project, which is financed by the Italian Economic DevelopmentMinistry. Before the real field application in the pilot project, a real-time digital simulation has been used to validate the algorithm presented. Moving in this direction, Enel Distribuzione S.p.A. built a new test center in Milan equipped with a real-time digital simulator (from RTDS Technologies)

In order to study new technologies, in sight of smart grids, and for new regulation, protection, and control devices homologation tests, it becomes essential to use a real-time digital simulator (RTDS). This calculator offers the possibility to analyze the behavior of the aforementioned devices in any electrical grid condition, especially those hardly reproducible on the real field. In this paper, the analysis of two types of Petersen Coil Regulators will be discussed, focusing on the experimental results reached, useful to gain an optimized electrical distribution grid management

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Working on Smart Grids, Enel Distribuzione is introducing innovative devices for grid operation, regulation and supervision. The complete infrastructure, based on an always-on communication network which uses IEC 61850 standard, needs to be accurately tested. Tests involve Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs), communication infrastructure and integration with the existing Enel SCADA. In order to satisfy these important needs, Enel created a specific Test Center to perform tests on devices and systems. This infrastructure uses a Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) and involves Enel SCADA. In this paper Test Infrastructure and Smart Grid devices (IEDs) are described focusing on real hardware and IEC 61850 data exchange tests, performed in a mix of simulated and real environment.

The wide diffusion of Distributed Generation (DG) represents a possible development of modern electrical systems that can evolve towards "Smart-grids. In fact, Smart-Grids should manage energy production and loads in a smart way, through appropriate communication systems and applications to be designed for the scope. Moving in this direction, Enel Distribuzione, built up a new centre in Milan to carry out research and development activity on mart grids, adopting simulation systems and innovative instruments. In particular, a real time digital simulator (RTDS) is being used to study the behaviour of the network in critical situation and to test the interaction with the devices to be developed. This paper is focused on the simulation activity taking place on RTDS and some preliminary results are presented.

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