Sandra Scalari

Analysis of the Italian distribution system evolution through reference networks

This paper presents initial results of a three-year research project entitled ATLANTIDE, which is aimed at developing a comprehensive digital archive of reference models of Italian distribution networks, including forecasted load and generation development evolving towards future smart grid scenarios. Such reference network models and evolutionary scenarios should provide a useful benchmark for testing and comparing different control methodologies, distribution schemes and operation strategies for dealing with the new challenges caused by the envisaged widespread diffusion and integration of distributed generation, renewable generation and distribution storage devices. The paper focuses on the criteria adopted for defining a set of evolutionary scenarios for the reference networks, accounting for current drives and future trends, valuable to a wide range of the stakeholders of the distribution business.

The ENCOURAGE ICT architecture for heterogeneous smart grids

The ENCOURAGE project aims at rationalizing energy usage in building by implementing a smart energy grid based on intelligent scheduling of energy consuming appliances, renewable energy production, and inter-building energy trading. This paper presents the reference architecture proposed in the context of the ENCOURAGE project, and relates it with the goals of its research efforts.

Convergence to the European energy policy in European countries: case studies and comparison

Purpose – Our paper aims at analyzing how different European countries cope with the European Energy Policy, which proposes a set of measures (free energy market, smart meters, energy certificates) to improve energy utilization and management in Europe. Design/methodology/approach – The paper first reports the general vision, regulations and goals set up by Europe to implement the European Energy Policy. Later on, it performs an analysis of how some European countries are coping with the goals, with financial, legal, economical and regulatory measures. Finally, the paper draws a comparison between the countries to present a view on how Europe is responding to the emerging energy emergency of the modern world. Findings – Our analysis on different use cases (countries) showed that European countries are converging to a common energy policy, even though some countries appear to be later than others In particular, Southern European countries were slowed down by the world financial and economical crisis. Still, it appears that contingency plans were put into action, and Europe as a whole is proceeding steadily towards the common vision. Research limitations/implications – European countries are applying yet more cuts to financing green technologies, and it is not possible to predict clearly how each country will evolve its support to the European energy policy. Practical implications – Different countries applied the concepts and measures in different ways. The implementation of the European energy policy has to cope with the resulting plethora of regulations, and a company proposing enhancement regarding energy management still has to possess robust knowledge of the single country, before being able to export experience and know-how between European countries. Originality/Value – Even though a few surveys on energy measures in Europe are already part of the state-of-the-art, organic analysis diagonal to the different topics of the European Energy Policy is missing. Moreover, this paper highlights how European countries are converging on a common view, and provides some details on the differences between the countries, thus facilitating parties interesting into cross-country export of experience and technology for energy management.

Preliminary analysis of MV cable line models for high frequency harmonic penetration studies

The large penetration of distributed generation requires accurate line and cable models in a frequency range much wider than the classical interval, 0–2.5 kHz, used for traditional harmonic and interharmonic penetration studies. In the paper, the behavior of MV cable lines is considered in the frequency range from 0 to 100 kHz, with reference to a casestudy. Models base on the classical Π and Γ line equivalent circuits are considered. Reference is made to open and short circuited line input terminals conditions. A comparison of the performances of different complexity models, in terms of impedance magnitude accuracy at output terminal, is developed.