Integrated modelling of gas and electricity distribution networks with a high penetration of embedded generation

Gas-based combined heat and power (CHP) has matured enough to be regarded as the next evolutionary step in promoting energy efficiency use in the urban environment. Although its potential market is increasing, little research has been conducted into the combined technical effects that a high penetration of these units may have on both natural gas and electric (G&E) distribution networks. This paper presents a power flow tool that performs a simultaneous assessment on some technical impacts that a high penetration of heat-driven cogeneration units may have on G&E networks. A case study is presented and results show that as expected, the gas demand increases as well as the losses associated with its delivery, while the opposite effects occur in the electrical system. However, less evident is the load profile variations distribution networks will experience and that overall energy losses will vary according to the CHP penetration and the type of technology used. The study shows that an integrated G&E analysis offers a fresh perspective in quantifying the effects cogeneration technologies will have on energy distribution networks.