Model-based DG control as an economic solution to load growth

At the distribution level distributed generators (DGs) can sometimes provide more economic solutions to load growth than building new substations and lines. In such cases a DG can be controlled to eliminate cable overloads or low voltages due to load growth. A model that accurately estimates conditions throughout the circuit can make the DG solution even more economically attractive, and in some cases with underground cables, feasible. The use of the model can avoid the cost of installing new instrumentation and communication equipment for the control function throughout the circuit, which can spread out over many square miles. DGs also provide benefits in system reliability and operating costs, especially near system peak. These benefits can increase significantly when circuits are interconnected. This paper addresses control architecture, field validation of models, economics, and field experience with model-based DG control.