The Impact of Distributed Generators Placements on the Reliability of Typical Industrial Power Distribution System

Abstract

Electrical Distribution systems that are radially configured with one utility power source are inherently exposed to higher rates of outages and interruptions, due to failures of system components, including: transformers, breakers and switching devices. In addition, fault conditions can also be caused by weather, animals or human error. Historically in Saudi Arabia, many industrial and residential distribution networks suffered from these problems. Large-size, growing demand and cost — with the time requirements for enhancement projects — results in distributed generation (DG) — as online or backup —playing a key role in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors of the power system. In this paper, the value of DG — installed as an online power source for typical industrial distribution network in Saudi Arabia — is quantified by reliability indices that include System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI), Customer Average Interruption Duration Index (CAIDI) and Energy Not Supplied (ENS). The study outcomes will provide power system engineers with the reliability benefits of DG penetration and an approach to assessing its installations, based on different factors such as size and location.