Balancing electricity supply with distribution network constraints

Abstract

The need for electricity demand to adapt to distribution network constraints and intermittent supply from renewable generators is widely recognised. However addressing both these goals simultaneously with a single demand side management scheme is difficult within a deregulated industry framework. This paper describes a scalable method by which electricity suppliers can shape demand from domestic and SME consumers, particularly that arising from adoption of heat pumps and electric vehicles. A process is proposed by which Distribution Network Operators notify a maximum power profile for each connection to the supplier, who then uses it to shape demand from each consumer so that DNO limits are satisfied as a priority, and demand responds to supply availability as far as possible.

Exploring Smart Grid Possibilities: A Complex Systems Modelling ApproachExploring Smart Grid Possibilities: A Complex Systems Modelling Approach

“…In the first, the likely impact of a high penetration of large scale wind generation on the UK short term electricity market is investigated [28]. In the second, the potential for a smart electricity supply company to perform demand side management by shaping the demand profile of its prosumer base is explored [26,34].…”