On the use of communication infrastructure in distributed power generation: A preliminary case study

Penetration of distributed power generation poses new problems in energy distribution. For example, photovoltaic generation systems may difficult the voltage management in distribution lines and voltage rise may occur. To overcome this problem, several voltage control strategies are available and they can be classified as autonomous or distributed regarding whether communication is available between dispersed generators. Through a preliminary case study, this paper investigates the impact that the communication infrastructure has for a given distributed voltage control strategy. Communication issues like transmission rate, delays, and losses are analyzed with respect to the voltage control application performance.