Yvon Besanger

On the use of distributed generation to increase EPS robustness

The article discusses the behavior of the distributed generation (DG) in order to increase the EPS (electric power system) robustness. Special attention is paid to the DG influence during emergency states such as the propagation of cascading failures or other major events. In one hand, a high amount of DG can improve the system response to these disturbances but, on other hand, a massive DG insertion could endanger the system operation. The article proposes a methodology to define the robustness and risk of a system operating point through the evaluation of a robustness index. Furthermore, EPS robustness could be enhanced by new emergency strategies such as intentional islanding operation. This would require new ICT components (information and communication technologies) in order to share and analyze the information and then, elaborate decisions to avoid total blackouts.

Impact study of new loads and time of use schedule in the low voltage network

Nowadays, the distribution networks are facing with new challenges such as the electrical vehicle connection, the emergence of new charges such induction cookers especially in South America and a strong integration of distributed generation at the low voltage level. In addition, the costumers are transforming their habits in order to become much more active in the network. Hence, this paper assesses the impact of new load/generation connected at low voltage as well as proposes a demand side management technique in order to try to reduce the main power peak during the night. The authors use real information coming from measurements.

Distributed chance-constrained optimal power flow based on primary frequency control

We propose a fully distributed algorithm to solve the Chance Constrained Optimal Power Flow (CCOPF), with the advantages of ensuring the privacy and autonomy of the different operators and actors of the system. We present, in this paper, a two-step algorithm that, first, carries out a distributed sensitivity analysis to obtain the generalized generation distribution factors. With these sensitivity factors, the second step solves a distributed CCOPF based on an analytical formulation relying on the Primary Frequency Control (PFC) of generators and on wind farms, whose forecast errors are assumed to be Gaussian. This algorithm allows us to schedule margins and reserves to ensure the security of the system regarding wind farms deviation from forecast with probabilistic guarantees, and to assess the cost of this uncertainty. The proposed method has been implemented and tested on a two-bus test system with one wind farm, and on the IEEE 14-bus test system, with two wind farms. Simulation results showed that the proposed algorithm can efficiently solve the CCOPF in a fully distributed manner.

Complex Distribution Networks: Case Study Galapagos Islands

This chapter presents a review of a proposed model for smart grid implementation on the Galapagos Islands. Unique characteristics of the archipelago such as difficult to transport consumables and fuel from the continent, the stress on public services produced by tourism, and the sensible native flora and fauna turn the grid operation in a delicate task. With this background, an exhaustive model for considering the influence in the network of new services (distributed generation, power storage, and electric vehicles) is presented. This model is linked with geographic information systems from where the information is taken about the connection of different elements, and then, using a Simulink environment, all calculations were made. Results of simulations of real feeders with proposed scenarios are presented, and the results and the economic analysis confirm the advantages of introducing new concepts in the traditional grid transforming it on a smart grid, even so when these benefits are easily observable and measurable. Simulations on a large scale are made in the software CYMDIST.

Development of a spatial load-forecasting module for optimizing planning of electricity supply

In todays economy, there is a strong need to forecast and predict future load demands in order to estimate the amount of load required and to properly prepare the planning purposes. This paper presents the development of a module with the ability to calculate the spatial load forecasting in any area of study. First, the electrical distribution system must be defined with all its components. After a model of geographical and temporal prediction of this demand for electricity, which uses a Hybrid method is developed. The software Python and ARCMAP are used in order to program the module. Furthermore, the developed module considers the main requirements for a good spatial load forecasting. Land use is a key factor in this work, excluding specific areas where is not possible to have growth.

CIM and OPC UA for interoperability of micro-grid platforms

In this paper, we are interested in the problem of interoperability of micro-grid platforms, particularly in information and communication layers. The implementation of Common Information Model (CIM) semantic over OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA) protocol, particularly the mapping of CIM semantic to OPC UA address space, is also considered, to ensure that the exchanged data is mutually and correctly understood by all the partners of the network We provide some insights about requirements to deliver OPC-based application via WAN connection. This combination brings CIM semantic to the OPC UA communication and allows the provision of OPC-based applications via WAN connection. This contribution enables a seamless and meaningful communication among partners of the collaboration network and provides a strong support for interoperability of micro-grid platforms.

Novel hybrid cloud based SCADA approach for interoperability of micro-grid platforms

In the context of smart grid development, this paper considers the problem of interoperability of micro-grid platforms, particularly among research institutions. Various levels of interoperability are introduced with the respective requirements. The primary aim of the paper is to propose a suitable private hybrid cloud based SCADA architecture satisfying various necessities in the framework of interoperability of micro-grid platforms while maintaining security restrictions. Due to the limited time restriction of critical SCADA functions in the electrical grid, only selected non-critical SCADA functions are accessible to partners from the private cloud. The critical SCADA tasks functionality remains under control of local server, thus, a hybrid cloud architecture. The communication model is based on Platform as a Service (PaaS) delivery model of cloud computing.