Smart LV distribution networks: An approach for power flow formulation with smart home models

In the case of low voltage (LV) distribution networks, the inclusion of smart homes is expected to increase the systems complexity due to multiplicity of interacting users with autonomous use of energy and the highly penetration of photovoltaic (PV). Consequently, the shift towards smart LV distribution systems implies that the traditional unidirectional power flow formulation and control strategies are not more realistic and flexible enough. At this aim, a systematic approach for modeling and simulation of smart LV distribution networks was developed to address this problem. It integrates a new power flow formulation, a high-resolved power demand model for smart homes and controllable PV inverters, allowing the simulation and analysis of more realistic LV distribution systems. It is used initially to estimate the benefits and future impacts of smart homes in the LV distribution system in Germany. The methodology can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of actual voltage control strategies in diverse scenarios on the smart LV distribution networks.