Distribution system planning taking into account distributed generation (DG), energy storage systems (ESS) and demand response (DR)

Abstract

Distribution systems are becoming complex power systems, where the system state (voltage at the nodes, lines flow, etc.) is not determined solely by the loads, but by loads and energy sources, renewable majority, which are connected to the system. Power generation from renewable sources has a high degree of uncertainty, which in many places, feasibility studies about energy storage systems installation are made for a joint operation with distributed generation to reducing the impact of uncertainty on this type of generation. Therefore the traditional models of planning and operation of distribution networks should be improved to take into account these new system components. This research project aims to study and develop models and computational tools for the planning of modern distribution networks, taking into account: (1) actions to network expansion: installation and expansion of substations, installation of new lines, replacing existing lines, and installation of distributed generation and energy storage systems; (2) operation of the network: uncertainty of renewables and loads and demand response; and (3) system reliability. Consider energy storage systems and demand response, besides the distributed generation, makes the problem even more complex, but are devices and concepts that are increasingly present in the distribution system and can influence the way of the network expansion is made. (AU)