Energy Storage Facilities Impact on Flexibility of Active Distribution Networks: Stochastic Approach

Abstract

• A stochastic economical flexibility evaluation method is proposed. • The probability distribution function of the network's flexibility is provided. • The flexibility that storage systems provide for distribution networks is quantified. • The PV generation and energy storage impacts on the flexibility are shown. • The storage capacity should be adopted for the secure distribution grid operation. Deriving benefits from a variety of flexible sources to lower or even eliminate renewable energy resources challenges is an imperative issue in the management of power systems. Constructing a well compatible flexibility evaluation method that encompasses cost minimization and flexibility improvement is crucial to tackle this. In this paper, a stochastic economical flexibility evaluation method is proposed based upon the envelope of the feasible operation region to the uncertain space. The probability distribution function of the network's flexibility is provided for each hour. Furthermore, the flexibility that storage systems as a flexible source provide for the distribution networks is quantified. The flexibility sensitivity to the storage facility capacity is scrutinized. The simulation results show the impact of PV generation and energy storage systems on the flexibility improvement. Moreover, the sensitivity outcomes reveal that which storage capacity should be adopted for the secure distribution grid operation.