Three-Phase State Estimation for Distribution-Grid Analytics

Power-distribution grids consist of assets such as transformers, cables, and switches, of which the proper utilization is essential for the provision of a secure and reliable power supply to end customers. Distribution-system operators (DSOs) are responsible for the operation and maintenance of these assets. Due to the increased use of renewable sources such as wind and solar, grid assets are prone to operation conditions outside safe boundaries, such as overloading, large voltage unbalance, and a rise in voltage. At present, distribution grids are poorly monitored by DSOs, and the above-mentioned problems may thereby go unnoticed until the failure of a critical asset occurs. The deployment of smart meters in distribution grids has enabled measurements of grid variables such as power, current, and voltage. However, their measurements are used only for billing purposes, and not for monitoring and improving the operating condition of distribution grids. In this paper, a state-estimation algorithm is proposed that utilizes smart-meter data for offline analysis, and estimates the loading of grid assets and power losses. Single- and three-phase state-estimation algorithms are compared through simulation studies on a real-life low-voltage distribution grid using measured smart-meter data. The three-phase state-estimation algorithm based on the nonlinear weighted least-squares method was found to be more accurate in estimating cable loading and line power losses. The proposed method is useful for DSOs to analyze power flows in their distribution grids and take necessary actions such as grid upgrades or the rerouting of power flows

Power Electronics Control of Wind Energy in Distributed Power Systems

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Robust PLL-Based Grid Synchronization and Frequency Monitoring

Nowadays, the penetration of inverter-based energy resources is continuously increasing in low-voltage distribution grids. Their applications cover traditional renewable energy production and energy storage but also new applications such as charging points for electric vehicles, heat pumps, electrolyzers, etc. The power ratings range from a couple of kW to hundreds of kW. Utilities have, in the last few years, reported more challenges regarding power quality in distribution grids, e.g., high harmonic content, high unbalances, large voltage and frequency excursions, etc. Phase-Lock-Loop (PLL) algorithms are typically used for grid synchronization and decoupled control of power converters connected to the grid. Most of the research within PLLs is mainly focusing on grid voltage angle estimation while the byproducts of the algorithms, e.g., frequency and voltage magnitude, are often overlooked. However, both frequency and voltage magnitude estimations are crucial for grid code compliance. Practical considerations for implementation on microcontroller boards of these algorithms are also missing in most of the cases. The present paper proposes a modified PLL algorithm based on a Synchronous Reference Frame that is suitable for both grid synchronization and frequency monitoring, i.e., the estimation of RMS phase voltages and frequencies in highly distorted distribution grids. It also provides the tuning methodology and practical considerations for implementation on commercial DSP boards. The performance of the proposed approach is assessed through simulation studies and laboratory tests under a wide range of operational conditions, showing that the proposed PLL can estimate the grid frequency, for all considered grid events, with an accuracy of less than ±5 mHz, which is a significant improvement on the current state-of-the-art solutions, having an accuracy of at least ±20 mHz or more

Influence of Resolution of the Input Data on Distributed Generation Integration Studies

One of the main issues concerning large penetration of the renewable energy based generators on the distribution network is related to the voltage variations due to intermittent character of the solar irradiance and wind. The actual power quality standards provide only general information regarding the evaluation procedure of the voltage fluctuations and no directions regarding the sampling frequency of the data used. As a consequence, most of the studies neglect effect of the solar irradiance and wind speed in fast changing conditions on the utility grid. This work proposes a methodology to evaluate the voltage fluctuations into the low voltage distribution network caused by variable generation and reveals the influence of data resolution on the final results. A short review regarding the assessment of the voltage variations is presented in advance and an appropriate model of the power system is build, including the generating units that are capable to operate with high resolution input data. Real parameters for the components of the simulated system are used in order to obtain realistic results.</p