Impact of Distributed Generation Technology & Operation Techniques on Distribution System Reliability

Abstract

The research work done in this paper is directed into two main routes. The first one is evaluating the impact of different conventional and renewable types of generation techniques on distribution systems' reliability. The second route is developing an appropriate algorithm to model the operation schedules of distributed generators to obtain realistic and applicable reliability analysis for distribution systems integrated with distributed generators. Case studies are offered and the results obtained are presented and discussed. Electrical power interruptions lead to economical, social losses and even human lives may be lost due to a power fail- ure. Testing the performance of an electrical system was the objective of many research efforts, trying to formulate equa- tions and identify parameters through which electrical engi- neers can judge whether this system is performing well or not. In other words; the system is reliable or not. Reliability is quantified by means of certain indices. These indices look into the system performance by computing the durations of interruptions and their frequency of occurrence. Analytical and simulation techniques were suggested to evaluate these indices in previous literatures. Many forms and equations were suggested to obtain the reliability indices; by the year 2001 IEEE (1) has approved standard definitions and equa- tions to explain and to calculate the reliability indices. Per- fect reliability could be reached but large amounts of in- vestments should be guaranteed to realize this target. Dis- tributed generation (DG) is considered a potential investment that leads to enhancement of the system reliability. Applica- tions of DG include; continuous power, combined heat and power, peaking power, green power and premium power. DG is mainly characterized by; quick start-up, low installed cost and low fixed and maintenance cost (2-4).