Voltage control for distribution systems

This paper discusses the contribution to both voltage control and increasing the loading on radial distribution feeders that can be achieved by allowing distributed generation to participate in voltage control. Distributed generators of many designs are capable of altering their active and reactive power outputs and can therefore make significant contribution to control of voltage. However, current practice requires that distributed generation be operated either at constant power factor or at constant reactive power output. In this mode, they cannot contribute to voltage control. This allows the use of simple and low cost controller. As such generation is likely to be in an area in which voltage control may be poor, especially where the generator is some distance from a bulk supply point or on the periphery of the power system. The paper proposes that the full exploitation of the capabilities of such generators would be of benefit