Co-Simulation of Smart Distribution Network Fault Management and Reconfiguration with LTE Communication

Michele Garau,Gianni Celli,Emilio Ghiani,Sergio Corti,Fabrizio Pilo

doi:10.3390/en11061332

Abstract

Transition towards a smart grid requires network modernization based on the deployment of information and communication technologies for managing network operation and coordinating distributed energy resources in distribution systems. The success of the most advanced smart grid functionalities depends on the availability and quality of communication systems. Amongst the most demanding functionalities, those related to fault isolation, location and system restoration (FLISR) to obtain a self-healing smart grid are critical and require low latency communication systems, particularly in case of application to weakly-meshed operated networks. Simulation tools capable of capturing the interaction between communication and electrical systems are of outmost utility to check proper functioning of FLISR under different utilization conditions, to assess the expected improvements of Quality of Service, and to define minimum requirements of the communication system. In this context, this paper investigates the use of public mobile telecommunication system 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) for FLISR applications in both radially and weakly-meshed medium voltage (MV) distribution networks. This study makes use of a co-simulation software platform capable to consider power system dynamics. The results demonstrate that LTE can be used as communication medium for advanced fault location, extinction, and network reconfiguration in distribution networks. Furthermore, this paper shows that the reduction of performances with mobile background usage does not affect the system and does not cause delays higher than 100 ms, which is the maximum allowable for power system protections.

Highlights

The objective of this study is to analyze the performances of Long Term Evolution (LTE) as a communication carrier for supporting data communication required for FLISR in smart distribution networks, permitting fault location, isolation and service restoration in an acceptable time
In Italy, for example, the regulation of distribution systems includes output-based incentives to Distribution system operators (DSOs) related to the quality of service, and, in particular, short interruptions from 1 s up to 3 min [39] can be subject to penalties or incentives
The proposed FLISR was tested on a real distribution network formed by five feeders, supplied by a high voltage voltage (HV)/medium voltage (MV) primary substation, and interconnected with emergency ties that can be used for changing the network reconfiguration

Summary

Introduction

The development of future energy systems in accordance with the smart grid (SG) paradigm requires a radical change in the management of the electricity distribution network, which needs to become intelligent and adaptive. Smart distribution networks (SDN) have systems in place to control a combination of distributed energy resources (DERs). Distribution system operators (DSOs) have the possibility of managing electricity flows using a flexible network topology [1,2]. The transition towards SDN involves software, automation, and controls to ensure that the power distribution network, remains within its operating limits The electric system is managed and controlled through ICT network, which allows a bidirectional exchange of large amounts of data, creating a keen interdependence between electric system and ICT system

Objectives

Results

Conclusion