Loss Minimization in Distribution Network using Wind Power Plant
Reactive Power Support
Abstract
The increased penetration of wind power plants (WPPs) in distribution
networks challenges the distribution system operators (DSOs) to improve
and optimize networks’ operation. A higher amount of local power
production translates to more losses in the network. This paper proposes
a deterministic optimization methodology to minimize the losses in
distribution networks with WPPs, by exploiting WPPs’ capability to
control reactive power in coordination with the on-load tap changers
from the MV/HV transformer, avoiding the need for network
reinforcements. The principal objective is to optimize the reactive
power flow in the network. Measurements from a real distribution network
with a large share of controllable WPPs under varying wind and load
conditions are used for the study. The benefits and the challenges of the
optimization methodology are assessed and discussed with respect to
active power losses, voltage profile and reactive power. The results show
that with reactive power support from WPPs, network losses are reduced
by 4.2 %. Higher loss reductions (up to 19 %) can be achieved through
a coordinated action between the WPPs and TSO. Furthermore, it is shown
that the distribution network can act as an asset to the transmission
network for reactive power support, via actively controlling WPP’s
reactive power.