Optimal management of microgrid with PV penetration and Storage: La Graciosa case study

Future power systems with high penetration of renewable generation and ICT, will allow increasing the controllability and observability of the grid. However, new challenges for low voltage distribution networks has arisen... [ view full abstract ]

Future power systems with high penetration of renewable generation and ICT, will allow increasing the controllability and observability of the grid. However, new challenges for low voltage distribution networks has arisen where the increasing distributed generation is mainly PV installed on the roofs of buildings. This type of generation is variable and generates disturbances in the network. Islands are ideal to experience and install new technologies since are weak grids and the penetration of PV will lead to bidirectional power flows at distribution level, thus a smart control will be required.

This article aims to present and innovative tool for the DSOs to monitor and manage grid operation. In near future, both distributed renewable generation and client’s flexibility will increase. New monitoring and control tools for DSOs are essential. Furthermore, the grid operation optimization is needed to accommodate the expected DER installations and the active participation of consumers’ flexibility services in markets ensuring system efficiency. This tool is tested on “La Graciosa” grid, one of the Canary Islands, to show its benefit. The grid includes HESS, PV generators and controllable/uncontrollable loads as well as some power analysers installed along the lines to monitor the grid.

This research tool comprises both an OPF and a SCADA. The former determines the best operating level for each generator or storage in the microgrid to meet demand and reduce losses maximizing PV penetration. By using the data obtained including PV prediction and HESS status, the OPF can set the current and predict future states by means historical values. A scheme of the architecture considered is shown in file "Scheme_of_the_architecture_considered.png".

A SCADA application is also designed to manage in real time the microgrid. The SCADA centralizes all the data and stores it to feed the OPF model with real time values, collects the calculated setpoint and stablish the communications between all the devices installed. Some screens of the SCADA can be seen in files "Grid_sketch_screen_on_the_SCADA.png" and "Power_analysers_data_on_the_SCADA.png" where the real implementation is shown.