Optimal control of small hydropower plants and power transformer tap changer in distribution network in order to minimize active power losses

In the concept of distribution generators (DG) integration, distribution network becomes active and philosophy of network guidance and control changes. The presence of DG in the network often results in the active losses increase and thus the maintenance costs raise. This problem is offen noted in radial networks, as DG in this type of networks make network doubly fed. This paper gives an answer how to run one or more small hydropower plants (SHPP) in a radial network with minimal losses. In this paper, the analysis of power flows, combined with optimization methods and technical constraints (voltage constraints according to EN50160) are carried out. One example with detailed calculations, conclusions and diagrams comments is conducted. The conclusions in this paper directly indicate the possible measures to be implemented in order to achieve a higher SHPP and distribution network performance.