With the rapid increase in distributed generation (DG), the issue of voltage regulation in the distribution network becomes more significant and centralized voltage control (or active network management) is one of the proposed methods. Alternative work on intelligent distributed voltage and reactive power control of DG has also demonstrated benefits in terms of the minimization of voltage variation and violations as well as the ability to connect larger generators to the distribution network. This paper uses optimal power flow to compare the two methods and shows that intelligent distributed voltage and reactive power control of the DG gives similar results to those obtained by centralized management in terms of the potential for connecting increased capacities within existing networks.

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Evaluating the technical impacts associated with connecting distributed generation to distribution networks is a complex activity requiring a wide range of network operational and security effects to be qualified and quantified. One means of dealing with such complexity is through the use of indices that indicate the benefit or otherwise of connections at a given location and which could be used to shape the nature of the contract between the utility and distributed generator. This paper presents a multiobjective performance index for distribution networks with distributed generation which considers a wide range of technical issues. Distributed generation is extensively located and sized within the IEEE-34 test network, wherein the multiobjective performance index is computed for each configuration. Results are presented and discussed.

Increasing connection of variable distributed generation, like wind power, to distribution networks requires new control strategies to provide greater flexibility and use of existing network assets. Active Network Management (ANM) will play a major role in this but there is a continuing need to demonstrate the benefit in facilitating connection of new generation without the need for traditional reinforcements. This paper proposes a multi-period AC Optimal Power Flow (OPF)based technique for evaluating the maximum capacity of new variable distributed generation able to be connected to a distribution network when ANM control strategies are in place. The ANM schemes embedded into the OPF include coordinated voltage control, adaptive power factor and energy curtailment. A generic UK medium voltage distribution network is analysed using coincident demand and wind availability data derived from hourly time-series. Results clearly show that very high penetration levels of new variable generation capacity can be achieved by considering ANM strategies compared to the widely used passive operation (i.e., 'fit and forget'). The effects on network losses are also discussed.

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