Automated active distribution network with multi-level cluster control approach

To move toward sustainable electrical power supply systems, a large number of decentralized energy conversion systems (ECSs) based on renewable energy sources (RESs) are integrated into network, especially into distribution networks. According to those drastic changes in power supply systems, the power systems have to be cautiously clarified and managed for grid integration, since the current distribution systems is a passive network. Due to inefficient strategy for grid integration, power systems stability problems can be occurred. To turn the ordinate distribution network into active network, this paper proposes a multi-level cluster control approach. The approach gives an opportunity to establish a control function down to local level; consequently, it is able to participate in grid control. Since the control approach is developed based on hierarchical conventional control strategy, it provides a flexibility and adaptability for DG grid integration. Moreover, it can be ensured that the proposed applications can coexist with the existing conventional grid. In order to figure out the functionality of proposed method, the verification case study is shown in this paper.