Abstract
Voltage rise issues have become a major limiting factor to greater penetration of wind generators in weak distribution networks. A complete decentralised approach to voltage control (VC) that fully utilises the reactive power capabilities of distribution wind generators is an emerging technology and one that has not yet been investigated extensively. This study explores the potentials of modern wind turbine technology integration to address the problem. It assesses such potentials on a realistic 289-node UK generic 11 kV distribution network using time-series optimal power flow simulations under constraint conditions. This study examines the power factor control and VC modes of operation of typical generators and proposes practical techniques that enhance greater connection capacities. The study successfully reveals that, operating the wind generators within a flexible reactive power capability limits effectively mitigates the voltage rise problem and maximises generation levels.
Highlights
The recent deployment of distributed energy resources renewable generation technologies are offering an extensive contribution to energy diversification and carbon footprint reduction
Due to the limited flexibility in voltage control (VC) methods distribution network operators (DNOs) tend to manage their networks by offering interruptible connections through ‘non-firm’ contracts and stricter operational control regimes that limit distributed generation (DG) power flows through curtailment
A base-case scenario is initially presented with the DGs modelled to operate at unity power factors (PFs), representing current passive approach to VC in distribution networks
Summary
The recent deployment of distributed energy resources renewable generation technologies are offering an extensive contribution to energy diversification and carbon footprint reduction. Due to the limited flexibility in VC methods DNOs tend to manage their networks by offering interruptible connections through ‘non-firm’ contracts and stricter operational control regimes that limit DG power flows through curtailment This method of operation addresses the voltage rise problem in the short-term, in the long-term can result in reduced energy yields affecting the economic viability of greater wind investments. These issues have led to recent Ofgem sponsored innovation projects in the UK, which supports DNOs to explore novel techniques that enhance network hosting capacities to accelerate the deployment of low-carbon technologies in a timely and cost-effective manner [5]. The results successfully reveal that operating the wind generators within a flexible reactive power capability boundary enhances and maximises generation outputs
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