Active power flow management solutions for maximising DG connection capacity

The increased connection of distributed and renewable generation to UK distribution networks in line with national targets requires the implementation of new operational management arrangements. The UK renewable resource is abundant; particularly in the north and west of Scotland. These areas are serviced by weaker distribution networks not capable of accepting large generator connections. Within the UK, active management is now emerging as an economically and technically viable alternative to network reinforcement for the connection and operation of distributed or renewable generation. One key component of emerging active management solutions is active power flow management (APFM). This paper summarises ongoing activities in the UK relating to APFM and demonstrate the application of a novel APFM scheme within a multiple generating unit context . It was shown that the implementation of APFM can result in around three times the generation capacity connecting to the distribution network under conventional approaches. Such schemes are crucial to the meeting UK national renewable energy targets in a cost effective manner