Smart distribution grids: New solutions for system operation in emergency conditions

Abstract

A notable spread of Dispersed Generation (DG) power plants, connected at Medium Voltage (MV) distribution grids, takes place in the Italian power system, with a big impact on the operation, both in normal and in emergency conditions, especially during transients determining frequency variations. Enel Distribuzione, the biggest Distribution System Operator (DSO) in Italy, proposed to install some special devices, on its distribution grid, to improve the effectiveness of management of DG and loads, during frequency transients in automatic way. The paper describes the solution proposed by Enel Distribuzione, that gives the possibility to better manage the DG and loads connected in MV in favor of the whole power system in presence of frequency transients, as the Italian Transmission System Operator (TSO) with its Defense Plan (DP) requires. Some numerical results for demonstrating the need and effectiveness of the application of the proposed solution in the real operation of the system are reported.