Multi-objective planning framework for stochastic and controllable distributed energy resources

The amount of distributed energy resources (DER) in the grid is continually increasing, and the potential benefits and drawbacks are becoming clearer. However, there is still a lack of clarity in how these multiple effects interact and which trade-offs should be made in the integration of new DER. There is a clear need for appropriate DER planning tools in the current market environment, in which both DER operators and distribution system operators (DSOs) may have multiple, often conflicting objectives and where uncertainty remains present as to which targets can be reached with a high amount of DER in the grid. A novel multi-objective planning framework is presented for the integration of stochastic and controllable DER in the distribution grid. A case study that illustrates the proposed framework is presented. Active DER management in terms of curtailment as well as dispatch of units is studied using the proposed multi-objective approach. Additionally, the extent to which active DER can be used as an alternative for grid reinforcements is analysed. The results show that the proposed multi-objective approach permits a better evaluation of the potential of active DER to support system operation.