Multi-Voltage Level Active Distribution Network with Large Share of
Weather-Dependent Generation
Abstract
Utility-scale and small scale wind and solar power installations along
with electric vehicle charging stations, and other active sources of
energy are increasing at the medium and lower voltage levels in the
distribution grid. This situation required a better understanding of the
impact of high penetration of weather-dependent renewable energy sources
on the operating conditions of the distribution network at both medium
and low voltage levels. Despite the need, a multi-voltage level
distribution network model, based on real network data and
weather-dependent renewable generation data, has not been presented for
distribution grid studies. This paper presents a comprehensive
multi-voltage level active distribution network model based on real
network data along with load and generation time-series for about a
year. The network topology is modelled based on geographical data for
various rural, semi-urban, and urban locations. The distribution network
is embodied with a large share of renewable generation sources, with
generation time-series simulated from meteorological data. The network
is also flexible to incorporate other assets such as electric vehicle
charging stations, storage, etc. Thus, the presented active distribution
network model can be used to study, optimize, and control the effects of
weather dependent generation and other network assets in the
distribution grid.