Optimal operation of a low-voltage distribution network with renewable distributed generation by NaS battery and demand response strategy: a case study in a trial site

The purpose of this study is to analyse possible strategies for control and management of an existing low-voltage (LV) network, also with a supervisor control and data acquisition system with future internet potentialities, in order to flatten the network voltage profile, to improve the power factor at medium voltage supplying busbars, to minimise the overall power losses and then to reduce operating costs. In particular, operational records of the LV network have been acquired over a period of 8 months, with a time rate of 4 snap-shots per hour (23,232 measures), and different possible scenarios (each of which compatible with the pilot plant control system and power management) have been analysed. On the base of simulation results carried out by power flow (PF), and optimal PF, studies, the effectiveness, in terms of cost-benefits analysis, of the installation of a suitable sized battery energy storage system, as well as of the implementation of a demand response strategy, has been also assessed. The main results of simulations, measurements and experimental tests are reported and discussed in detail.