Smart coordination of battery energy storage systems for voltage control in distribution networks with high penetration of photovoltaics

The use of battery energy storage systems (BESS) is one of the methods employed in solving the major challenge of overvoltage, experienced on low voltage (LV) distribution networks with high penetration of photovoltaics (PV). The overvoltage problem limits the penetration levels of PV into the LV network, and the benefits that could be gained. This paper presents a smart scheme for the coordination of multiple battery energy storage systems (BESS) in such networks. An approximate method was adopted for the evaluation of network voltage sensitivity, and the coordination algorithm was developed based upon this. Through the efficient selection, coordination and timing of charge and discharge operations of the BESS, the scheme maintains bus voltages within statutory ranges during both periods of high PV power generation and high network load demand. The scheme also prevents sudden voltage rise, which usually occurs in such networks immediately a BESS gets fully charged. Simulations were carried out on a real LV distribution network and results demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach.