Integration of new methods into distribution management systems in the presence of distributed energy resources and smart meters

Abstract

The integration of emerging technologies into the modern electrical energy distribution systems has been enforced by the increasing interest in a more intensive adoption of renewable and alternative energy sources, such as photovoltaic generators and electric vehicles, and by the reduction of costs associated with these devices. However, to attain high integration levels of these agents, it is essential to improve and update the Distribution Management Systems - DMS, with the addition of more measurement data and development of new functionalities. The use of smart meters with bidirectional communication capability has the potential to transform completely the application of distribution management systems due to the large amount of data that can be aggregated to these systems. To convert these data into useful information, new analysis methods and advanced network functions must be developed. In this context, the objective of this Ph.D. project consists in developing new methods for integration into the modern distribution management systems by employing, among others, data provided by smart meters installed in networks with high penetration of distributed energy sources. Among the distributed energy sources, it will be considered photovoltaic generators, electric vehicles and energy storage systems comprised of electrochemical batteries. With respect to the methods, the first action will consist in the development of a state estimator with a key additional function for detecting topology, registration and parameters errors in the database of the distribution management systems. With more precise and reliable information provided by the state estimator, new methods will be developed to perform Volt/Var control, detection and location of non-technical losses and phase load balancing, by employing both network-side solutions, such as voltage regulators, switched capacitors and batteries, and customer-side solutions with the use of the capabilities of inverters present in photovoltaic generators, electric vehicles and batteries. Throughout this project, a critical analysis of the granularity of data will be carried out in order to reduce the complexity and costs associated with the implementation of each proposed functionality. (AU)