Matteo Cantù

Representative distribution network models for assessing the role of active distribution systems in bulk ancillary services markets

Nowadays, renewable energy sources feed significant shares of energy demand, resulting in a reduction of market energy price but also a significant increase of expenditures for ancillary services due to inherent not complete predictability and programmability. Thus loads and generation in the distribution network are more and more required to play an active role in supporting grid stability by participating to ancillary service markets, either directly or through aggregators. The paper presents a novel procedure to estimate distribution networks capabilities to support grid stability, by making use of synthetic representation of HV/MV substations and their relevant distribution networks with a GIS based clustering procedure. The impact of active distribution networks to the bulk ancillary service market is then evaluated by applications to the Italian electric system and by assuming different regulatory frameworks for transmission/distribution network market interactions.

Methodology for Integrated Socio-economic Assessment of Multi-use Offshore Platforms

This chapter presents the methodology employed for the Integrated Socio-Economic Assessment (MISEA) of different designs of Multi-Use Offshore Platforms (MUOPs). The methodology allows for the identification, the valuation and the assessment of the potential impacts and their magnitude. The analysis considers a number of feasible designs of MUOP investments, and the likely responses of those impacted by the investment project. The approach provides decision-makers with a valuable tool to assess whether a MUOP project increases the overall social welfare and hence should be undertaken. This is performed under alternative specifications regarding platform design, the discount rate and the stream of net benefits, if a Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) is to be followed or a sensitivity analysis of selected criteria in a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework. The methodology can support the implementation of policies aiming at achieving a good environmental status of the EU’s marine waters and the protection of the resource base upon which marine-related economic and social activities depend.