Modeling of the integration of distributed generation into the electrical system

The presentation deals with both technical and economical feasibility of the distributed generation concept highlighting a set of items that must be investigated before this opportunity can be adequately pursued. Among them are understanding the technological impact, evaluating the kind of penetration in the distribution grid, quantifying the power quality problems related to its implementation, developing planning procedures that incorporate dispersed generation into distribution systems, designing interfaces between distributed generation technologies and existing distribution systems, quantifying the flexibility introduced, defining characteristics of new management control systems. The above clearly requires adequate modeling, and the presentation focuses on this point. An integrated and coordinated approach based on theoretical design, simulation analysis and experimental is discussed. Also the experimental work that is being carried out at university laboratories, CNR (the Italian National Research Council), and in cooperation with distribution utilities and independent power producers is illustrated.