Active Distribution Network Research Articles

A cooperative approach for generation and lines expansion planning in microgrid‐based active distribution networks

AbstractWith the growth of the load in the electricity networks, sufficient investment in the generation and lines expansion should be made in order to provide the energy needed by consumers with the lowest possible investment and operation costs. This issue is especially important in distribution networks, which are faced with the uncertainties of renewable energy generation and the development of microgrids and related issues.In this article, the planning of generation and lines expansion has been modeled with the aim of minimizing the total costs of microgrids, based on the cooperative approach. For this purpose, a bi‐level model has been developed; on the upper level, microgrids make investment decisions with a cooperative approach, and a constrained stochastic formulation has been developed with considering operational uncertainties on the lower level. Also, in this article, in order to ensure the supply of critical loads in island conditions, the self‐sufficiency index is defined. Three case studies have been considered to ensure the effectiveness of the developed model. In case 1, each microgrid will be able to supply its load only by generating of its units and purchasing from the retail market. In case 2, the possibility of trading with other microgrids in a non‐cooperative approach will also be available to the microgrids operators, and in case 3, microgrids can exchange energy with other microgrids in a cooperative manner. The simulation results showed that due to the possibility of using nearby microgrid resources, the cost of microgrid load supply in case 2 was reduced by 4.84% compared to case 1. Also, this cost in case 3 was reduced by 5.23% and 0.38%, respectively, compared to cases 1 and 2, due to the use of a cooperative manner in microgrid load providing.

A short-circuit protection scheme for active distribution networks based on improved adaptive current reliability coefficient

Abstract Addressing the issue of misoperation in traditional three-zone current protection caused by the assisted, drawdown, or reverse current due to the large-scale integration of distributed generation (DG) into distribution networks (DNs), an adaptive current short-circuit protection scheme based on local information is proposed for active DNs (ADNs). Firstly, the adaptive current protection reliability coefficients are improved for the setting of protection zones I and II of the lines in the ANDs. On the DG side, an improved reliability coefficient is constructed using an e-exponential function. Subsequently, the distance between the fault point and the busbar is calculated by analyzing the relation between the positive-sequence voltage and positive-sequence current at the measuring point when faults occur at various locations. Based on this distance parameter, the reliability coefficient is adjusted in real time. Finally, the modified adjustable reliability coefficient, along with the online-calculated equivalent impedance and equivalent electromotive force, is used to coordinate the setting of short-circuit protection zones I and II of the lines in the ADNs. Simulation results demonstrate that, compared with traditional adaptive current protection schemes, this proposed scheme is independent of the location of short-circuit fault points, the grid-connected capacity, or the number of DGs, exhibiting better selectivity and reliability.

Enhancement of Active Distribution Network Performance with Multiple Distributed Generators and DSTATCOMs using Reptile Search Algorithm

The integration of multiple DGs can introduce power quality issues and instability in the (DN) due to their intermittent and fluctuating nature. Distributed Static Compensators (DSTATCOMs) are devices that effectively manage and regulate both active and reactive powers, thereby maintaining the desired levels of reactive power in the DNs. This paper investigates the problem of determining the optimal number and placement of multiple DSTATCOMs within active DNs with multiple Distributed Generators (DGs) connected to them. To achieve the optimal sizing and allocation of multiple DSTATCOMs, a novel heuristic method called the reptile search algorithm (RSA) is introduced in this study. A combination of the RSA method and the loss sensitivity factor (LSF) are utilized to identify the optimal number, sizes, and locations of DSTATCOMs to enhance the performance of active DNs with different types of DGs and loads. The desired improvements include mitigating voltage deviation at nodes, minimizing system power losses, and alleviating overloading in feeders. The effectiveness of the algorithm is evaluated using an IEEE-33 bus DN, which is modified to incorporate different DGs and load types. To assess the efficiency of the proposed method, a modified particle swarm optimization (MPSO) algorithm is used for comparison. The results demonstrate that the RSA approach presented in this paper is robust in obtaining optimal solutions, offers fast and easy implementation, can be applied to large DNs, and outperforms the MPSO algorithm.

Power flow analysis and volt/var control strategy of the active distribution network based on data-driven method

In order to solve the problems of low power flow calculation accuracy and voltage overcrossing of the distribution network caused by large-scale distributed power supply, a data-driven power flow analysis and volt/var optimization control strategy for distribution network are proposed in this paper. Firstly, a data-driven power flow analysis model for the distribution network is proposed, and the nonlinear mapping relationship between the distribution network state and power flow results is described from the data-driven perspective. Secondly, the paper analyzes the influence of photovoltaic power supply on the voltage of the distribution network, and establishes the volt/var optimization model based on photovoltaic power supply. Then, on the basis of data-driven power flow analysis of the distribution network, the distribution network reactive voltage optimization strategy based on data-driven power flow analysis is proposed to ensure the safe and stable operation of distribution network voltage, reduce the operating network loss of distribution network, and realize the distribution network reactive voltage optimization is not affected by factors such as distribution network line parameters. Finally, IEEE 33 node power distribution system is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed strategy.

Optimizing decentralized implementation of state estimation in active distribution networks

AbstractThe challenges facing active distribution networks have highlighted the position of the distribution system state estimation (DSSE) process in the distribution management systems as its most important function. Here, regarding the extensive scale of distribution networks and the weaknesses of centralized methods, the decentralized implementation of the DSSE process has received considerable attention. However, predefined network partitioning is supposed in previous works and zone size effects on the performance of the DSSE process have not been assessed. In response, a method for finding the optimal number of network zones and their size is proposed here. For this purpose, initially, an algorithm is used to partition the network into all possible configurations with different sizes. Subsequently, performance metrics affected by zone sizes, such as execution time, accuracy of the DSSE results, and reliability in achieving the results at the control centre, are modelled. Finally, by applying the decentralized DSSE method across all partitioning scenarios and calculating performance metrics, the most efficient and cost‐effective partitioning scenario can be identified. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated using the modified 77‐bus UK distribution network as an active test case, and the findings are subsequently presented and analysed.

Operational reliability and non-deterministic resilience estimation of active distribution network incorporating effect of real-time dynamic hosting capacity

Active distribution networks are increasingly recognized essential for achieving sustainable development goals. Traditionally, hosting capacity was considered as a static measure for planning distributed energy resources integration. This work introduces the concept of dynamic hosting capacity, which recurrently re-evaluates hosting capacity in response to erratic modern grid conditions. The introduction of dynamic hosting capacity facilitated testing variations of power injection from minimum to 100 %, sustaining power system governing parameter limits. This embarked the need of operational reliability assessment and enhancing situational awareness for optimum power injection and balance. To achieve operational reliability analysis based on dynamic hosting capacity, hybrid probability distribution function-based Monte Carlo simulation is proposed. This resulted in 85–90 %. improvisation of solar photovoltaic generation and load alignment, as this methodology provides comprehensive and accurate assessment of system performance under diverse uncertainties. The framework's validation includes projection of time-varying operational reliability indices, over time independent reliability indices i.e., dynamic loss of load probability, dynamic loss of load expectation, dynamic loss of load duration, dynamic loss of load frequency, dynamic grid margin, and dynamic grid dependency. This resulted in 30 % improvement in assessment of grid margin, facilitating reliable uncertainty handling competence. Additionally, expectation maximization algorithm is proposed to evaluate non-deterministic resilience due to ambiguities associated with solar photovoltaic distributed energy resources. The non-deterministic resilience assessment testified 80 % bounce-back rate, demonstrating better adaptability and robustness. The entire analysis is conducted in MATLAB, validated using Typhoon Hardware-in-Loop real-time platform, and compared with existing literatures to demonstrate its effectiveness.

PMU-based voltage estimation and distributed generation effects in active distribution networks

The integration of distributed generation (DG) and phasor measuring units (PMUs) has significantly impacted electrical distribution networks. This study focuses on real-time control of renewable energy intermittency and strategic PMU deployment. By optimizing the placement of PMUs and DGs, the study aims to achieve several goals: maximize power loss reduction, increase DG penetration, and maintain acceptable voltage profiles. The recommended PMU-based approach incorporates the optimal number of DGs into the distribution network for load flow analysis. Testing this technique on 12-bus, 33-bus, and 69-bus networks yielded substantial gains. For example, power loss was 81.044 % lower in the 33-bus system and 79.256 % lower in the 69-bus test system compared to the base-case scenario. We also compared these results with other methods found in the literature. The developed algorithm is recommended for application in a real electrical power distribution network for more efficient integration of PMUs and new distributed generation units. Integrating PMUs with DG benefits active distribution network management, enabling proactive grid management and stability.

Research on multi-time scale Volt/VAR optimization in active distribution networks based on NSDBO and MPC approach

To explore the potential of all-round and multiangle voltage and reactive power control to reduce losses in a new power system with a high proportion of distributed resources connected to a distribution network, this study proposes a Volt/VAR optimization method for distribution networks using a nondominated sorting dung beetle optimizer (NSDBO) and model predictive control (MPC). According to the characteristics of the various adjustable resources in the network, they are divided into day-ahead and intraday optimizations. The optimization process in the day-ahead stage uses the NSDBO to create a discrete equipment scheduling plan. The optimization process in the intraday stage combines the discrete equipment scheduling plan with the MPC to create the scheduling plan for photovoltaics, energy storage, and vehicle charging stations. Two-stage optimization scheduling is achieved with the lowest discrete equipment regulation cost and minimization of network loss and node voltage deviation penalty cost as the optimization goal. The feasibility of this method for coordinating various resources in the network, processing discrete and continuous variables, and coping with the volatility and uncertainty of high-proportion distributed resources is verified through case analysis. The effectiveness of this method in improving the security and economy of distribution networks is demonstrated. The superiority of the solution speed and quality is also confirmed.

Multi-Objective Optimization Operation of Multi-Agent Active Distribution Network Based on Analytical Target Cascading Method

Multi-Objective Optimization Operation of Multi-Agent Active Distribution Network Based on Analytical Target Cascading Method

Two-Stage Optimization Model Based on Neo4j-Dueling Deep Q Network

To alleviate the power flow congestion in active distribution networks (ADNs), this paper proposes a two-stage load transfer optimization model based on Neo4j-Dueling DQN. First, the Neo4j graph model was established as the training environment for Dueling DQN. Meanwhile, the power supply paths from the congestion point to the power source point were obtained using the Cypher language built into Neo4j, forming a load transfer space that served as the action space. Secondly, based on various constraints in the load transfer process, a reward and penalty function was formulated to establish the Dueling DQN training model. Finally, according to the ε−greedy action selection strategy, actions were selected from the action space and interacted with the Neo4j environment, resulting in the optimal load transfer operation sequence. In this paper, Python was used as the programming language, TensorFlow open-source software library was used to form a deep reinforcement network, and Py2neo toolkit was used to complete the linkage between the python platform and Neo4j. We conducted experiments on a real 79-node system, using three power flow congestion scenarios for validation. Under the three power flow congestion scenarios, the time required to obtain the results was 2.87 s, 4.37 s and 3.45 s, respectively. For scenario 1 before and after load transfer, the line loss, voltage deviation and line load rate were reduced by about 56.0%, 76.0% and 55.7%, respectively. For scenario 2 before and after load transfer, the line loss, voltage deviation and line load rate were reduced by 41.7%, 72.9% and 56.7%, respectively. For scenario 3 before and after load transfer, the line loss, voltage deviation and line load rate were reduced by 13.6%, 47.1% and 37.7%, respectively. The experimental results show that the trained model can quickly and accurately derive the optimal load transfer operation sequence under different power flow congestion conditions, thereby validating the effectiveness of the proposed model.

Corrigendum: Power management of harmonic polluted active distribution network in the presence of integrated unit of electric spring and electric vehicles parking lot

Corrigendum: Power management of harmonic polluted active distribution network in the presence of integrated unit of electric spring and electric vehicles parking lot

The Low-Carbon Path of Active Distribution Networks: A Two-Stage Model from Day-Ahead Reconfiguration to Real-Time Optimization

The integration of renewable energy sources and distributed energy storage systems increasingly complicates the operation of distribution networks, while stringent carbon reduction targets demand low-carbon operational strategies. To address these complexities, this paper introduces a two-stage model for reconfiguring distribution networks and ensuring low-carbon dispatch. Initially, second-order cone programming is employed to minimize losses in the network. Subsequently, the outputs of renewable energy and energy storage systems are optimized using the mantis search algorithm (MSA) to achieve low-carbon dispatch, with the network’s carbon potential as the evaluation metric. The proposed model demonstrates a significant reduction in average active power loss by 34.85%, a decrease in daily carbon emissions by 509.97 kg, and a reduction in carbon emission costs by 17.24%, thereby markedly enhancing the economic and social benefits of grid operations.

An enhanced algorithm for detection of HIAF in active distribution networks and real-time analysis

Identifying a downed conductor in distribution is challenging due to the insignificant variations in the current signal. Most of the distribution system faults are identified using overcurrent and earth fault protection. Fault path resistance decides the current magnitude while high resistance path may create timely issues in identifying a fault. Downed conductor and high resistance faults create arc in between the ground and conductor. Due to this the fault at the location is highly nonlinear with reduced magnitude. These faults are known as high impedance arcing fault (HIAF). Such faults can be identified effectively by conducting harmonic analysis of the signals. But in a modern distribution system apart from other renewable sources, the integration of electric vehicle (EV) may create HIAF detection challenges due to the inclusion of inverters and switching harmonics associated with EV. Considering the available advanced architecture of modern microgrid system, an effective solution is proposed in this work to securely detect HIAFs. The method is robust and highly reliable for HIAFs. The system stability and continuity can be unaffected with the help of the proposed method in case of various non-fault or transient/switching conditions. Comparison with other profound techniques is done to show the superiority of the proposed method.

A two-layer economic resilience model for distribution network restoration after natural disasters

Improving the resilience of energy networks and minimizing outages is crucial, making the development of self-healing strategies essential for ensuring a continuous power supply and boosting resilience. As decentralized prosumers become more integrated into smart grids, innovative coordination methods are required to fully leverage their potential and improve the system's self-healing capabilities. Hence, in this paper, we present a decentralized two-layer model for active distribution networks (ADNs) incorporating commercial energy hubs, Parking lots (PLs), hydrogen refueling stations, and mobile units (MUs). This model aims to maximize the flexible capacities of flexible prosumers under emergencies and includes a dynamic mechanism for transporting hydrogen to refueling stations via trucks. In the first layer of the model, the AND operator provides the required services to flexible prosumers, including commercial energy hubs, PLs and hydrogen refueling stations. During this layer, the movement paths of mobile units, such as battery-based mobile storage units (MSUs) and mobile hydrogen units (MHUs), are determined. In the second layer, prosumers independently plan and decide the extent of their service contributions. Subsequently, with the actual service capacities established, the AND operator re-optimizes the initial planning to finalize the system schedule and precise movement paths of the mobile units. The proposed model was tested on a modified 83-bus distribution network using the CPLEX solver in GAMS. Simulation results demonstrate a 54.9 % reduction in forced load shedding (FLS) due to the dispatch of mobile units and a further 84.4 %% reduction in FLS from leveraging the flexible capacities of commercial energy hubs and PLs.

Fault-Line Selection Method in Active Distribution Networks Based on Improved Multivariate Variational Mode Decomposition and Lightweight YOLOv10 Network

Fault-Line Selection Method in Active Distribution Networks Based on Improved Multivariate Variational Mode Decomposition and Lightweight YOLOv10 Network

Collaborative operation of active distribution network considering PV-storage-charging-compensation

Abstract With the conjunction of clean energy generation and electric cars, the power distribution network is gradually shifting from a traditional one-way radiative network to an active network. Coordinated control of these controllable elements of “source-grid-load-storage” can improve the operating voltage level and economic benefits, and reduce the load peak and off-peak difference. A collaborative dispatch model for active power distribution networks including PV-storage-charging-compensation is constructed in this paper, with the goal of minimizing network losses and PV curtailment costs. The cone transformation is used to handle non-linear constraints of power flow. Compared with existing ordered charging control methods, the constructed model can maximize the control efficiency of the distribution grid, enhance the PV absorption capacity, and effectively slow down the upgrading and renovation of the distribution network.

Ground fault protection algorithm of active distribution network based on energy extremum direction

AbstractAfter large‐scale distributed power sources are connected to the distribution network, the fault current undergoes noticeable changes, affecting the accuracy of traditional single‐phase grounding fault algorithms. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to address the impact of distributed power integration on the grounding algorithms of distribution networks. The main contribution is: by establishing an electrical system structure and model for distribution network grounding faults that include distributed generation (DG), theoretically deriving and calculating the transient zero‐sequence current frequency changes at the moment of fault, analysing the directional characteristics of zero‐sequence currents under DG connection conditions, designing a local grounding fault judgment algorithm based on energy extremum direction, and providing a fault judgment and isolation process for grounding fault monitoring devices. The results show: through simulation and experimentation, the algorithm was tested, and the method can reliably judge grounding faults under various transition resistances, different numbers and capacities of connected distributed power sources, and different grounding switch‐on angles. The applicability of the algorithm covers both methods of neutral grounding through an arc suppression coil and ungrounded neutrals, adapting to scenarios with or without DG connections.

Lightning risk assessment of active distribution network with distributed photovoltaic system

Lightning strikes are the main reason for the fault of active distribution network. It is of great significance to study the risk assessment of lightning in active distribution network for lightning protection. Taking an active distribution network in a certain region as the research object, considering the mutual influence between the photovoltaic side and the distribution line side during lightning strikes, the method of lightning risk assessment for the active distribution network with photovoltaic system was proposed. Electrical geometric models were constructed to calculate the fault rate of the photovoltaic side and the trip rate of the distribution line side, and the risk assessment was conducted based on the calculation results. The results show that when the lightning strike is closest to the tower on the photovoltaic side, the lightning fault rate on the photovoltaic side increases from 0.957 times/year to 3.0766 times/year. When the photovoltaic side is struck by lightning, the intrusion of lightning impulse can double the lightning trip rate of the adjacent three towers on the distribution line side, indicating a higher risk level. It is recommended to focus on the protection measurement for the three towers near the photovoltaic system.

Collaborative optimization of electric-vehicle battery swapping stations based on energy storage sharing

Due to the extensive integration of distributed renewable energy resources, the Active Distribution Network (ADN) faces numerous challenges, including, for example, renewable energy curtailment and overloading. This paper proposes a collaborative optimization control method for electric-vehicle battery swapping stations that mitigates the mismatching between generation and load demand in the ADN. Energy storage sharing is considered in this study, that allows stations to exchange batteries via the traffic network, and this extends the capacity of Battery-Transferable Swapping Stations (BTSSs). First, the operational principles of the energy storage shared BTSS are carefully analyzed, including external and internal control mechanisms and energy storage sharing. Subsequently, a bi-level optimization model is proposed, whereby the upper level aims to minimize the total operational cost of the ADN and the lower level seeks to maximize the benefit of each BTSS. A two-stage transactive control is introduced to decompose the bi-level situation into two stages: the day-ahead stage and the real-time stage and this facilitates easier problem-solving. Finally, an IEEE 15-node system is utilized to verify the proposed method. The results indicate that the proposed method reduces the renewable energy curtailment, power shortages, and operational costs of the ADN, while at the same time increasing the earnings of BTSSs.

Co-optimization of virtual power plants and distribution grids: Emphasizing flexible resource aggregation and battery capacity degradation

Coordination between virtual power plants and active distribution networks is crucial as these plants increasingly aggregate distributed resources within the power system. This study introduces a bilevel optimization framework to coordinate the scheduling of multiple virtual power plants and an active distribution network using pricing strategies for energy and reserves. The upper-level optimization minimizes total operating costs by incorporating bidding plans of the active distribution network in various markets, its interactions with multiple virtual power plants, and operational costs. The lower-level optimization maximizes revenue for each virtual power plant, considering both battery capacity degradation costs and operational costs of various resources. To facilitate solutions, this research developed a nonlinear transformation method for modeling capacity degradation. Based on the dispatching strategy from the virtual power plant, this study uses the squared difference between energy consumption of equipment for controllable loads and the strategy as the optimization target to derive control strategies for two equipment types. Results show that the framework effectively integrates dispatch and control strategies without oversimplifying the system model, proving its applicability in various scenarios with diverse resource compositions.