Reducing Power Losses Using Optimal Accommodation and Smart Operation of Renewable Distributed Generation

The penetration of distributed generation and wind power in particular is expected to increase significantly over the coming years, and a huge shift in control, operation and planning of distribution networks is going to be necessary if this generation is to be connected in a cost effective manner. Traditionally, distribution networks have been operated as passive networks with uni-directional power flows and were designed through deterministic (load flow) studies considering the critical cases so that distribution networks could operate with a minimum amount of control. With the connection of increasing amounts of distributed generation, these networks are becoming active and with power flowing in the two directions, hence requiring more intelligent forms of management. Increasing connection of intermittent distributed generation, such as wind power, to distribution networks requires new control strategies to provide greater flexibility and use of existing network assets. Active network management (ANM) will play a major role in this and will help in facilitating connection of new generation without the need for traditional reinforcements. A multi-period AC optimal power flow (OPF)-based technique for evaluating the maximum capacity of new intermittent distributed generation able to be connected to a distribution network when ANM control strategies are in place. The ANM schemes embedded into the OPF include coordinated voltage control, adaptive power factor, energy curtailment and demand side management