OPF evaluation of distribution network capacity for the connection of distributed generation

Gareth Harrison, Robin Wallace

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract / Description of output

Distributed generation (DG) capacity will increase significantly as a result of UK Government-led targets and incentives. While the technical problems arising from distribution level connections may be mitigated for individual connections, the anticipated connection volumes imply a potential risk of conflict between connections, in that inappropriately sized or located plant could constrain greater
development of the network and consequently threaten the achievement of renewable energy targets. One means of addressing this risk is to encourage development at sites that are more suitable whilst discouraging those at inappropriate ones. First network operators must be able to evaluate the
available capacity on the system (i.e. the headroom). Here, a technique is presented that facilitates such analysis. Termed ‘reverse load-ability’, the approach models fixed-power factor DG as negative loads and uses optimal power flow to perform negative load shedding that effectively maximises
capacity and identifies available headroom. The technique was applied to an extensive distribution and sub-transmission network. It was found to rapidly identify available headroom within the imposed thermal and voltage constraints. Furthermore, its use is demonstrated in examining the consequences of a sequence of connections in terms of the impact on available headroom and in
sterilising the network.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)115-122
JournalIEE Proceedings on Generation, Transmission and Distribution
Volume152
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2005

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'OPF evaluation of distribution network capacity for the connection of distributed generation'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this