Automation of Low-Voltage Distribution Grids Using SDNS in South Africa

Abstract

A distribution grid is the dispatching part of the power grid where electricity is finally utilized by the end users. In the electricity industry, automation habitually means the smart grid. The SG is a broad topic with different elements working towards grid optimization. One best way of optimizing a power grid is to balance the electricity supply and usage. This paper proposes an automated approach and presents a coordinative concept to develop a real-time interfacing network for demand-side management mitigations. The SDNS network concept uses a master–slave metering hierarchy to coordinate the devices between the utility and the end users by regulating the electrons’ movement from the utility to the consumer’s side. This concept was tested on MATLAB and a prototype. The results proved the efficiency of this design in demand-side management. The SDNS is an innovative tech, and it also plays a vital role in making consumers role players in easing the grid. The results proved that load management could replace load shedding by correctly implementing the SDNS concept.