Colin Foote

Translating CIM XML power system data to a proprietary format for system simulation

The problem of exchanging data between two or more organizations in a format that is accessible and understandable by each is a universal problem. Furthermore, the problem of translating or accessing data in the correct format for applications using proprietary data formats is challenging. Legacy software applications may endure, for some time given, regulatory expenditure pressures on electricity system operators and these require data translators (importer/exporter) and access facilities. The basis of this paper is that the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) common information model (CIM) in eXtensible Markup Language (XML) represents the first stage in a revolution of data exchange and manipulation for power systems. This paper explores the problem of translating data in the CIM XML format to the required format for such legacy power system analysis applications. This paper discusses solutions to some of the challenges in data translation, and illustrates how these solutions can be implemented.

A Power-Quality Management Algorithm for Low-Voltage Grids With Distributed Resources

As a result of many factors, including the European Unions aim to increase the share of electrical energy from renewable sources, the number of distributed-generation (DG) devices in Europe is significantly increasing. Increasing numbers of DG units may cause problems with power quality (PQ). In this paper, a PQ-management algorithm is presented that reduces or even solves this problem in low-voltage grids. This algorithm will be implemented as one of several software modules in a system for distributed power operation and PQ management in low-voltage grids. PQ management in this context means maintaining PQ within prescribed limits by optimizing the control of generators, storage units, and controllable loads. Significant advantages of the presented approach are that the algorithm is universal and that it adapts its control variables automatically. Therefore, a detailed analysis of the grid in advance is not necessary. Furthermore, local PQ control of distributed resources can work autonomously and continuously without triggering by external signals, which is advantageous in the case of loss of communications. Various simulations to validate the effectiveness and stable operation of the algorithm were performed and results presented that show a marked improvement in PQ.

Distribution System Planning in Focus

Our interest in the theory and practicalities of distribution system planning have been aroused by recent discussions with distribution network operators in the U.K. and by more general work on the requirements for power system planning methodologies for the twenty-first century. Specific note is made of distributed generation, which presents substantial challenges for distribution system planners and has been the focus for a study of the changing needs of distribution planning.

Developing distributed generation penetration scenarios

The growth of distributed generation requires analysis based on realistic forecasts of future scenarios. This paper presents an original methodology that has been employed to develop penetration scenarios to support further research. The methodology combines top-down and bottom-up approaches to produce robust scenarios. The top-down approach is based on forecasts of total distributed generation at a national level. The bottom-up approach exploits expert opinion to determine the most likely developments under different conditions. The two approaches are combined according to the objectives of the analysis to be supported. The methodology offers a useful tool for scenario development and supports ongoing research in distributed generation

Northern Isles New Energy Solutions: Active network management stability limits

The Northern Isles New Energy Solutions (NINES) project is addressing the current and future energy needs of the Shetland Isles by demonstrating the integration of low carbon energy sources using smart grid technology. In so doing, NINES will facilitate a major step towards a low carbon future for Shetland whilst leading and informing the wider international low carbon energy transition. The principal objective of the NINES project is to enable more renewable connections in a geographical area that is deemed to have the richest renewable energy resources in Europe. As such, the electrically islanded Shetland power network will see significant changes in operation as district heating schemes, domestic space and water heating systems, energy storage systems and new wind connections are developed, deployed and integrated under an active network management system. This paper discusses the role of inter-dependent system models in providing essential inputs to active network management (ANM) design and configuration. Early results from model development and testing are presented with specific focus on the stability limits for the connection of additional renewable generation when operating in conjunction with frequency responsive demand.

UK research activities on advanced distribution automation

Active network management (ANM) has emerged as the common, collective term in the UK for the automatic management and control of distributed energy resources (DER) in distribution networks. DER is the main driver of research and development in automation in the UK at present but network reliability performance enhancement remains the most common use of automation in power network applications. Power utility industry workgroups, academic/industrial consortia and individual research and manufacturing organizations have initiated major programs of advanced distribution automation investigative activity in recent years. Starting from the main drivers of ANM and progressing through industry wide (government sponsored) activities, this paper summarizes the recently completed and ongoing activities in all phases of research and development in the UK. In addition future directions of advanced distribution automation is discussed. These take account of the extending scope of advanced distribution automation (or ANM) that now encompasses all DER types and several other utility performance and asset management objectives.

2002 FACTS Award Call for Nominations

The findings of research in distribution system planning methodologies indicate: discontinuity between the theory and practice of distribution system planning; set of new requirements for distribution system planning in the light of electricity industry restructuring and other developments in the industry and technology; lack of topical research in general distribution system planning methodologies focused on live utility requirements; and several immediate challenges for researchers and developers in distribution planning methodology. Some of the challenges in distribution system planning for the future have been noted in this letter and several more are added to the list. The future challenges for distribution system planning include: further development of techniques based on heuristics, cases, and tacit knowledge; incorporation of the multiple drivers in present-day electricity distribution planning (e.g., reliability, distributed generation, load, and condition); integration of planning techniques with other energy or utility service planning; incorporation of best practice in planning methodology; and consideration of customer needs in an environment of changing customer base under restructuring.

Voltage dip compensation in LV networks using distributed energy resources

The paper presents possibilities of using distributed generation (DG) sources to mitigate voltage dips in LV grids due to short circuits in the MV and HV network. DG sources based on voltage source inverters (VSI) with pulse width modulation (PWM) control were considered. The DG sources generate active power depending on the depth of voltage dips under faults conditions. The compensation effect is shown for different DG source capabilities and different coupling between the LV and MV networks, i.e. the short circuit power of the distribution transformer. The PSCADIEMTDC programme was used for analysis of system performance. Results of simulation for a study network are presented, which show the effectiveness of compensation.

Power quality improvement in LV networks using distributed generation

The paper presents how power quality (PQ) can be improved in LV networks with distributed generation by using certain aspects of the sources, i.e. inverters and advanced controllers. This is demonstrated through simulation with PSCAD/EMTDC. PSCAD models of the loads, distributed sources and controllers are discussed. A model of measurement blocks is also proposed for power quality assessment. Some results of simulation are presented, which show the effectiveness of compensation.

Active network management on islanded systems: The shetland experience

The Northern Isles New Energy Solutions (NINES) project is addressing the energy needs of the Shetland Isles by demonstrating the integration of low-carbon energy sources using smart grid technology. In so doing, NINES represents a major step towards a low-carbon future for Shetland whilst leading and informing the UK-wide transition. The principal objective is to accommodate more renewable connections in an area that has some of the richest renewable energy resources in Europe but is restricted by existing network infrastructure. This paper discusses the role of modelling in establishing constraint rules and the use of those rules in an Active Network Management (ANM) scheme on Shetland. The constraint rules are modelled in offline analysis to calculate the impact of the ANM scheme on the network access of potential customers and to model the dynamic response of the network. The rules are then implemented in the ANM software to manage the output of ANM-controlled generation in real time.