A flexible control strategy for active distribution networks in a fast-changing scenario

The quick growth of Distributed Generation (DG) is posing some challenges to the distribution networks and to the power system on the whole since the total installed power is now comparable to the conventional generation park. To face those possible criticalities, the connection rules are undergoing a revision process in order to guarantee a more flexible operation of the networks and outlining an advanced role for both the Distribution System Operator (DSO) and the DG itself. Among the innovative operation procedures, the voltage control may gain further flexibility from DG power modulation and storage units operated by the DSO. This paper describes an algorithm for the voltage regulation developed by RSE (“DISCoVER”) that guarantees achievement of technical goals minimizing the overall dispatching cost. It is able to manage different regulation resources, with respect to their technical and economic features. In order to evaluate possible contribution of storage units, different load and generation scenario could be considered. First results achieved from simulation activity on the test network (based on a real MV grid) are given.