Control of autonomous active distribution grid - introduction

The energy independence, security and reliability of operating energy distribution systems, along with the use of renewable sources (RES), are the most important topics of energy-related research and development in recent years. The presented paper introduces develop, test and analyze the concept of an autonomous active distribution grid (AADG) with the following set of specific requirements: (i) autonomous operation without dependence on energy from external power grids, (ii) operation with well-balanced production and consumption of electric energy, (iii) possibility of energy storage, (iv) predominant use of RES, (v) capability to serve nontraditional loads, (vi) new type of grid protection allowing bi-directional power flow, and (vii) active, intelligent energy management system. The main objectives of the proposed project are to complete the development of an AADG test bed, and to analyze its properties and characteristics. The test bed will take the form of smart energy system for an energy-independent house. This energy level has been selected to allow effective design, testing, operation and analysis of the system. However, the results of this study will scalable, and thus applicable to energy systems of larger size, e.g. to smart cities and communities. These results will support development of new, leading-edge power distribution systems, and improvements of efficiency, security and reliability of existing systems. The ultimate products of this project will be methodologies, tools and devices that address the specific requirements listed above.