Development of new methodologies for the advanced management of electrical energy distribution systems

Abstract

Electrical energy distribution systems have been subjected to crucial changes related to the integration of new technologies, such as, photovoltaic generators, electric vehicles, storage, and meters and sensors for billing and monitoring purposes, with two-way data communication. These changes are accompanied by the increase in the complexity of the distribution systems and, consequently, in the need for more efficient management practices dedicated to such systems. Therefore, recently, the concept of Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS) has emerged integrating, among other functionalities, the ones from the traditional Distribution Management System (DMS) and from the Outage Management Systems (OMS). The DMS is responsible for the supervision, control and optimization of the operation of distribution systems. The OMS aims, as fast as possible, to detect, locate and solve defects in distribution systems that causes interruption to the customers. In this context, this research project intends to develop new methodologies focused on two main topics. The first is the management of distribution systems operation, by improving voltage and reactive power control, and proposing new metrics and practices that allow increasing the hosting capacity of distribution systems to photovoltaic generators, electric vehicles, and storage. The second is the outage management, involving new techniques of fault detection, classification and location, and supply restoration. (AU)