The DSO network development with the increase of distributed energy resources number and their capacity

Abstract

Energy transition is a continuous process, involving all elements of the energy sector. For Distribution System Operators the ability to cope with new challenges resulting from the energy transition (i.a. digitalisation, EV, PV, energy storage, distributed energy, energy communities, microgrids, energy sharing, geopolitical changes) is one of the most significant elements of this process. To meet the challenges of the transformation, it is necessary to develop new solutions adapted to the needs of all market participants, redefine priorities, establish new rules of cooperation in order to ensure security and stability of the power system at economically justified costs. The article describes network flexibility as a tool allowing DSOs meet needs of energy sector transformation process based on flow-circle concept. The idea of it is to use continuous observation tools (captured in the observability of the network), making predictions over different time horizons, across different areas, with varying observation granularity. The result of the calculations allows to identify constraints in the system, e.g., overloads, risk of failure or shortage of power or energy, and to select countermeasures commensurate with the threat and available at the selected time horizon. Key words: DSO, network management, flexibility, local balancing, flow-circle concept