Developing an Integration of Smart-Inverter-Based Hosting-Capacity Enhancement in Dynamic Expansion Planning of PV-Penetrated LV Distribution Networks

Abstract

With the penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs), new network challenges arise that limit the hosting capacity of the network, which consequently makes the current expansion-planning models inadequate. Smart inverters as a promising tool can be utilized to enhance the hosting capacity. Therefore, in response to technical, economic, and environmental challenges, as well as government support for renewable resources, especially domestic solar resources located at the point of consumption, this paper is an endeavor to propose a smart-inverter-based low-voltage (LV) distribution expansion-planning model. The proposed model is capable of dynamic planning, where multiple periods are considered over the planning horizon. In this model, a distribution company (DISCO), as the owner of the network, intends to minimize the planning and operational costs. Optimal loading of transformers is considered, which is utilized to operate the transformers efficiently. Here, to model the problem, a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model is utilized. Using the GAMS software, the decision variables of the problem, such as the site and size of the installation of distribution transformers, and their service areas specified by the LV lines over the planning years, and the reactive power generation/absorption of the smart inverters over the years, seasons, and hours are determined. To tackle the operational challenges such as voltage control in the points of common coupling (PCC) and the limitations in the hosting capacity of the network for the maximized penetration level of PV cells, a smart-inverter model with voltage control capability in PCC points is integrated into the expansion-planning problem. Then, a two-stage procedure is proposed to integrate the reactive power exchange capability of smart inverters in the distribution expansion planning. Based on the simulations of a residential district with PV penetration, results show that by a 14.7% share of PV energy generation, the loss cost of LV feeders is reduced by 28.3%. Also, it is observed that by optimally making use of the reactive power absorption capability of the smart inverters, the hosting capacity of the network is increased by 50%.

A Comprehensive Review of Renewables and Electric Vehicles Hosting Capacity in Active Distribution Networks

“…The primary goal is to determine the best locations and sizes of fault current limiters, and BESSs in order to raise the HC level and ensure the reliability and security requirements. While smart inverters are implemented into a proposed expansion strategy to enhance the voltage-restricted PV-HC through planning years in [186]. Findings illustrate that a 50%-increase in PV-HC can be achieved through the proposed technique.…”

“…Although there have been a number of planning models put forth to boost the integration of DGs, there is currently a lack of research in the literature to quantify the capacity of the networks to host RDGs, during the planning stage, that adhere reliability and security requirements [183,184]. Recent publications, for example [183][184][185][186], conducted research to enhance DG-HC, during the planning phase, depending on generation and transmission expansion planning models.…”

“…The ability of V2G facility to improve the voltage stability of the DN (considering uncertainties of EVs) is presented in [186]. following section.…”

Compensation Admittance Load Flow: A Computational Tool for the Sustainability of the Electrical Grid

“…In recent years, the landscape of electricity generation has undergone a transformative shift from centralized production to a distributed generation (DG) model, necessitating substantial adaptations within the electricity grid framework. The conventional architecture of distribution grids, originally designed for passive operations with radial topologies and unidirectional power flows towards high-to-low voltage (HV to LV) substations, has proven inadequate for accommodating the significant integration of distributed generation [1,2]. As the demand for electricity escalates and distributed renewable sources gain widespread adoption [3], the need to modernize grid infrastructure and implement advanced monitoring and regulation technologies becomes imperative [4,5].…”