article · IEEE Access
Integrating large volumes of distributed generation into electricity distribution networks requires effective control and reconfiguration strategies. A methodology has been developed to optimise network topology by determining the optimal number, capacity, placement, and power sharing of distributed generation units. In place of conventional tie line switches, soft open points are incorporated to regulate active and reactive power flows, thereby enhancing system performance. The approach employs a modified particle swarm optimisation algorithm to identify the most effective configuration, sizing, and placement of both distributed generators and soft open points. The overarching objective is to maximise energy efficiency, minimise power losses, and enhance voltage profiles during both normal and abnormal operating conditions, while strictly preserving network operating limits. Validation was conducted using standard IEEE 33-node and 69-node distribution network benchmarks across various operating cases.
Modern electrical grids increasingly rely on decentralised energy resources, which can complicate grid management. Optimising where these generators are placed and substituting conventional switches with flexible soft open points helps prevent power loss and maintains steady voltage. This ensures distribution networks remain reliable, flexible, and efficient as higher levels of renewable and distributed power are added to the grid.
This methodology is targeted at electrical distribution utilities and smart grid software developers seeking tools for network planning and power flow management. Because the findings are based on simulated test feeders rather than utility trials or hardware demonstrations, the work is at an early research stage, requiring further engineering and software validation before it can be applied to operational networks.
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Active distribution networks concerned with providing efficient control technologies for large-scale integration of distributed generation (DG) units into the distribution systems. This research proposes a methodology for distribution networks reconfiguration by controlling number, sharing, size, and location of DG units. Also, the soft-open points (SOPs) are added instead of the tie line switches. The SOPs are benefited with its high capability in controlling active/reactive power flow to enhance transmission system performance. The main target of this work is to increase the efficiency of energy utilization through minimizing the power system losses and improving system voltage profile while preserving all system constraints within permissible limits with reliable and flexible networks in normal and abnormal conditions with a suitable penetration level of DG. A modified particle swarm optimizer is developed to find the best system configuration, size, and placement of DG units as well as the size and allocation of SOPs. Research methodology is tested on two standards: the IEEE 33-node and 69-node distribution networks under different operating cases. This paper compares the obtained results with those in the literature to prove the capabilities of the proposed work. Finally, the suggested work pursues the optimal number of DG units with their appropriate penetration levels and selects the most convenient location of SOPs for adequate network reconfiguration.
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DOI: 10.1109/access.2019.2930631
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