Conservation Voltage Reduction, reducing the supply voltage by a small percentage such that customer equipment and distribution transformers may operate more efficiently, has been shown in the US to be very beneficial in delivering Energy Savings. ESB Networks, is trialling the effect of this on Irish Networks with positive results emerging from early stages trials. This paper looks at the actual results of the triled and considers these results in the context of expected results through modelling and simulation and comparison to international results.

Abstract--The integration of increasing penetrations of renewable energy sources is one of the key drivers for the increased deployment of control and optimization on power systems. Much of this wind generation is connected to the distribution system, which presents a range of challenges to the operation of these networks, traditionally utilized solely for power delivery. This paper describes a demonstration programme in Ireland which addresses two of the key challenges in delivering high penetrations of wind energy in a cost effective and efficient manner. Firstly, the paper addresses a trial of the advanced reactive power control capabilities of modern wind turbines, investigating how this resource can be better utilized from a distribution and transmission perspective. The second aspect is measures to improve the efficiency of the distribution system in light of these increasing penetrations of wind energy Index Terms--Voltage control, power distribution planning, reactive power, wind power generation, distributed generation

This paper outlines an investigation of demand side management resources and potential impact on distribution networks to be undertaken by ESB Networks, the Irish distribution system owner and operator. The objectives and drivers of such a trial are introduced along with field trial implementation pre-analysis and potential network impact.

In light of high levels of distributed generation on distribution networks, voltage and reactive power management is challenging operators of both the distribution and transmission systems. The European network codes being developed by ENTSO-E are likely to call for "power transfer standards" to be defined, specifying the voltage and power factor bands which must be maintained at the transmission / distribution interface. This paper deals with how the DSO may meet such a power transfer standard as defined for nodes where there is significant wind generation connected on the distribution system. The work addresses the identification of the existing active and reactive power capability which could be achieved and a methodology for sizing and siting any distributed compensation required to deliver the desired characteristic in a manner which best meets utility priorities. The proposed methodology is tested on a network and the results discussed. Finally the characterisation method proposed is used to assess a number of alterative options which may reduce the requirement for compensation to be installed.

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