Analytical method to estimate the steady-state voltage impact of Non-Utility Distributed Energy Resources

Author(s)

Monteiro, Felipe M. dos S. ; de Souza, Jonas V. ; Asada, Eduardo N.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Electric Power Systems Research; v. 218, p. 10-pg., 2023-02-13.

Abstract

The Non-Utility Distributed Energy Resources (nDERs) are those not responsible for supporting the distribution system operation. These resources are crucial for improving the Energy mix's sustainability due to their majority renewable nature. However, integrating these resources into distribution systems has become a challenge for Distribution Companies (DisCos) due to their intermittent behavior. This challenge is even more significant when a gap in distribution system modernization (smart meters and communication systems) exists. This paper proposes an approximate method to evaluate the nDERs' impact on the distribution system's steady-state voltage. The method is based on a linear approximation of voltage drop/rise and the impedance matrix. It has been validated on two distribution systems considering five scenarios. Numerical comparison with exact solution has shown good results in four scenarios with maximum absolute errors around 0.01 p.u. in low-risk and high-risk voltage violation situations. The proposed method can be used in the planning or operation stage as a first estimation where no real-time monitoring is available, or the power-flow calculation is difficult to obtain. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 18/23338-0 - Power distribution system expansion planning considering the hosting capacity of distributed energy resources
• Grantee: Felipe Markson dos Santos Monteiro
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate