A Novel Hybrid Network Architecture to Increase DG Insertion in Electrical Distribution Systems

Abstract

Distribution networks will experience a deep mutation concerning their planning and operation rules due to the expected increase of distributed generation (DG) interconnection to the grid. Indeed, the opening of the electricity market or the growing global concern for environmental issues will lead to a massive development of DGs. Yet, a too large amount of DGs could raise technical problems on distribution networks which have not been planned to operate with bi-directional power flow. The existing solutions to solve marginal DG connections could be no longer relevant. The distribution network definitely has to evolve towards a smarter and more flexible network. Two possible ways to reach this goal are through new architectures and developing intelligent systems. This paper focuses on new architectures and operating modes. The traditional radial distribution network could accept more DGs by introducing appropriately specific loops. A new hybrid structure enabling the coexistence of the radial and meshed operation is proposed. It is equipped with autonomous circuit-breakers and automated switches that improve its reliability. A heuristic algorithm is also proposed to build this new architecture while ensuring the equality of consumers with respect to the continuity of service and while minimizing the global cost.