Multifunction Battery Energy Storage System for Distribution Networks

What is it about?

Abstract: Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is one of the potential solutions to increase energy system flexibility, as BESS is well suited to solve many challenges in transmission and distribution networks. Examples of distribution network's challenges, which affect network performance, are: (i) Load disconnection or technical constraints violation, which may happen during reconfiguration after fault, (ii) Unpredictable power generation change due to Photovoltaic (PV) penetration, (iii) Undesirable PV reverse power, and (iv) Low Load Factor (LF) which may affect electricity price. In this paper, the BESS is used to support distribution networks in reconfiguration after a fault, increasing Photovoltaic (PV) penetration, cutting peak load, and loading valley filling. The paper presents a methodology for BESS optimal locations and sizing considering technical constraints during reconfiguration after a fault and PV power generation changes. For determining the maximum power generation change due to PV, actual power registration of connected PV plants in South Cairo Electricity Distribution Company (SCEDC) was considered for a year. In addition, the paper provides a procedure for distribution network operator to employ the proposed BESS to perform multi functions such as: the ability to absorb PV power surplus, cut peak load and fill load valley for improving network's performances. The methodology is applied to a modified IEEE 37-node and a real network part consisting of 158 nodes in SCEDC zone. The simulation studies are performed using the DIgSILENT PowerFactory software and DPL programming language. The Mixed Integer Linear Programming optimization technique (MILP) in MATLAB is employed to choose the best locations and sizing of BESS.

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Photo by Alex Rerh on Unsplash

Photo by Alex Rerh on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The paper has investigated a methodology for optimum location and sizing of the BESS in order to maintain technical constraints during reconfiguration after a fault, and compensate the unpredictable changes in PV generation power. Additionally, the paper has proposed a procedure for distribution network operator to employ the addressed BESS to perform multi functions such as ability to absorb PV power surplus, cut peak load and fill load valley for improving network's operation. The methodology was applied for two case studies: (i) a modified IEEE 37-node test feeder, and (ii) a part of a real distribution network consisting of 158 nodes in the SCEDC zone. The methodology suggests the optimum locations and sizing of the required BESS, which results in reconfiguration with no technical constraints, besides compensated PV generation changes. Load factor improvement and PV power surplus absorption were fulfilled via the suggested procedure. DIgSILENT PowerFactory and DPL programming language have been successfully employed in power flow studies. The MILP in MATLAB has been successfully implemented as an optimization technique for selecting the best locations and sizing of the required BESS.

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