Interconnecting Distributed Resources with Electric Power Systems: Requirements, Modeling, and Analysis

Distributed generation (DG) is an emerging technology used to provide electric power at or near a load site. Interest in DG is growing due to transmission congestion and difficulty in siting, financing, and adverse environmental impacts of traditional resources. DG includes such technologies as microturbines, gas turbines, fuel cells, and renewable energy sources like mini/micro hydro, wind, and photovoltaics. The broader category of distributed energy resources (DER) includes storage technologies, such as batteries and flywheels. Most electric distribution systems are designed and developed for a single, central source, and therefore, special requirements for connecting DG to the utility system are critical for ensuring its safety and reliability. This research paper develops models of distributed generators and the DG interface to the distribution system.