Distribution system planning in focus

Our interest in the theory and practicalities of distribution system planning have been aroused by recent discussions with distribution network operators in the U.K. and by more general work on the requirements for power system planning methodologies for the twenty-first century. Specific note is made of distributed generation, which presents substantial challenges for distribution system planners and has been the focus for a study of the changing needs of distribution planning

UK research activities on advanced distribution automation

Active network management (ANM) has emerged as the common, collective term in the UK for the automatic management and control of distributed energy resources (DER) in distribution networks. DER is the main driver of research and development in automation in the UK at present but network reliability performance enhancement remains the most common use of automation in power network applications. Power utility industry workgroups, academic/industrial consortia and individual research and manufacturing organizations have initiated major programs of advanced distribution automation investigative activity in recent years. Starting from the main drivers of ANM and progressing through industry wide (government sponsored) activities, this paper summarizes the recently completed and ongoing activities in all phases of research and development in the UK. In addition future directions of advanced distribution automation is discussed. These take account of the extending scope of advanced distribution automation (or ANM) that now encompasses all DER types and several other utility performance and asset management objectives

Developing distributed generation penetration scenarios

The growth of distributed generation requires analysis based on realistic forecasts of future scenarios. This paper presents an original methodology that has been employed to develop penetration scenarios to support further research. The methodology combines top-down and bottom-up approaches to produce robust scenarios. The top-down approach is based on forecasts of total distributed generation at a national level. The bottom-up approach exploits expert opinion to determine the most likely developments under different conditions. The two approaches are combined according to the objectives of the analysis to be supported. The methodology offers a useful tool for scenario development and supports ongoing research in distributed generation

Enhancing flexibility and transparency in the connection of dispersed generation

This paper proposes an approach to assessing generator connection requests that seeks to enhance flexibility and transparency by trading network reinforcement to accommodate generation against operational constraints on the generator that can reduce the required network reinforcement. The impact of dispersed generation and the passing on of costs to generators is briefly discussed. The trade-off concept is introduced and there is supplementary discussion of nondespatchable generation and the monitoring and control of generators. A method of evaluating generator connections is proposed and an example illustrates the resultant choice faced by generators. Finally, some conclusions are draw

A multiple criteria model for evaluating distributed generation development options

This paper looks at a multiple criteria model for evaluating distributed generation development option

The impact of network splitting on fault levels and other performance measures

The fault level rating of installed equipment in urban areas is a common restriction on the expansion of distributed generation (DG). One option for reducing fault level is to split the network at selected points by, for example, opening bus section circuit breakers that are normally run closed. This paper presents studies performed to evaluate the impact of network splitting on fault levels and various network performance measures such as reliability and power quality. Four generic test networks were used that reflect typical operating conditions and configurations of UK distribution networks, although the results are generally applicable to other networks. The studies provide valuable guidance on the potential benefits and costs of network splitting and so contribute to the debate on how to accommodate more DG on existing networks. Other issues like network operation and maintenance must also be considered when assessing if a particular network splitting option is acceptable from both a network and generation perspective

Fundamental research challenges for active management of distribution networks with high levels of renewable generation

This paper is concerned with critically evaluating existing and emerging active management concepts and defining the contributions that ongoing and future research activities can bring in supporting the implementation of active management in distribution networks. These aims are achieved by defining and then extrapolating from current understanding of active network management. The key contributions from completed and ongoing projects in the field are clearly presented. In addition, the gap is assessed between what is achievable with existing and emerging active management solutions and what is required from active management if renewable energy targets are to be met within the current grid capability. Several specific recommendations are made in the paper that have relevance to power utilities, generators, plant manufacturers, network planners and monitoring and control equipment providers. These recommendations will facilitate concept validation and the implementation of future active management schemes

Information requirements and methods for characterising distributed generation

Distributed generation (DG) poses new challenges in distribution network development and operation. Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) will face more active management of networks, new commercial arrangements, and new challenges in asset management. Resolving these will require new types of analysis that were previously unnecessary or very rare. Collecting and processing information to facilitate these analyses presents a significant new burden for DNOs. However, methods are available that may assist DNOs in the collection of information. Three such methods are discussed here: a structured approach to fundamental information requirements; standard formats; and generic device types or category descriptions. Examples are provided of how DNOs would use the information collected to analyse DG connection and operation. Effective management of information will enable DNOs to characterise DG and perform the analyses necessary to ensure that a reliable and high-quality electricity supply is maintained

Web services platform for power system development planning

This technical session presentation looks at web services platform for power system development plannin

Translating CIM XML power system data to a proprietary format for system simulation

The problem of exchanging data between two or more organizations in a format that is accessible and understandable by each is a universal problem. Furthermore, the problem of translating or accessing data in the correct format for applications using proprietary data formats is challenging. Legacy software applications may endure for some time given regulatory expenditure pressures on electricity system operators and these require data translators (importer/exporter) and access facilities. The basis of this paper is that the EPRI common information model (CIM) in extensible markup language (XML) represents the first stage in a revolution of data exchange and manipulation for power systems. This paper explores the problem of translating data in the CIM XML format to the required format for such legacy power system analysis applications. This paper discusses solutions to some of the challenges in data translation, and illustrates how these solutions can be implemented