Enhancing stability and power restoration of smart grid through distributed energy resources

Abstract

The power system network is exposed to several disturbances, from planned to unplanned events. The power system grid is expected to remain stable during these events. The power system grid is also anticipated to be flexible enough to accommodate various types of loads and smoothly integrate multiple energy resources. The high penetration of distributed energy resources (DER) increases the level of complexity of the power system; however, their contribution to enhancing power system stability is also noticed. Some of these energy resources utilized are highly dependent on weather conditions. These include wind energy as well as solar energy. These energy resources are coupled to the grid through a power electronics interface. However, their integration configuration does not enable them to participate in active power dispatching based on system dynamics. The utilization of battery energy storage systems in parallel with DER has drawn attention word-wide to eliminate the dispatching capability issues of distributed energy resources. The dissertation explores integrating these energy resources to enable them to participate in active and reactive power dispatching. Their vigorous participation has been observed to immensely enhance smart grid stability and improve service restoration. Various case studies have been performed, such as the impact of load demand increase, generation loss, and line tripping. These energy resources' contribution to improving the smart grid stability was possible through additional control loops in the system. The case studies were performed before and after implementing the proposed control system. The efficacy of the proposed control system was analyzed, and the implementation of this control system showed a significant improvement in smart grid stability and service restoration. The standard IEEE 33 bus network was modified and modelled using PowerFactory DIgSILENT software. All the case studies and contingencies were performed using the same simulation tool, and the results were recorded.