Fast estimation of equivalent capability for active distribution networks

Abstract

The electricity system is subject to continuous evolution stimulated by the integration of renewable energy sources. This transformation is having deep impacts on the planning and operation of networks and new potential roles of system operators are currently investigated. In particular, having assumed a future in which the energy demand is largely satisfied by distributed generation, it can be reasonably expected that distribution networks will be soon enabled to offer balancing and regulation services to the market. In this scenario, the distribution operator may aggregate all the local dispatchable resources and, from their combination, a single capability can be obtained to represent the flexibility limits of the entire network. This study presents few simple and intuitive methods for a fast and accurate construction of this equivalent capability.