Analysis and quantification of the benefits of interconnected distribution system operation

Blair, Steven Macpherson and Booth, Campbell and Turner, Paul and Turnham, Victoria (2013) Analysis and quantification of the benefits of interconnected distribution system operation. In: 5th International Conference on Advanced Power System Automation and Protection, 2013-10-28 - 2013-10-31, Hyatt Regency Jeju Hotel.

[thumbnail of APAP2013-Blair]
Preview
 PDF. Filename: APAP2013_Blair.pdf
Accepted Author Manuscript
Download (1MB)| Preview

Abstract

In the UK, the Capacity to Customers (C2C) project is underway to determine the potential benefits of increased interconnection in distribution systems, combined with demand side response technology. Managed contracts with customers, i.e., the agreement that certain loads are interruptible following system faults, allows distribution circuits to be loaded beyond the limits presently required for security of supply. This potentially permits load growth but avoids the cost and environmental impact of conventional network reinforcement. This paper provides the results of electrical system modelling to quantify the benefits of the C2C operation, using actual circuit data and typical load distributions. Based upon simulations of these circuits, it is shown that increased interconnection generally leads to minor improvements in electrical losses and system voltage. By connecting managed (i.e., interruptible) loads, circuits typically can be loaded significantly further than the present practice in the UK—an average increase of 66% for radial operation and 74% for interconnected systems.

ORCID iDs

Blair, Steven Macpherson ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3261-4803, Booth, Campbell ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3869-4477, Turner, Paul and Turnham, Victoria;
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)