Distribution Planning and Operations with Intermittent Power Production

The introduction of small-scale dispersed intermittent power production, such as photovoltaic and wind electric generation into distribution systems, will affect distribution system planning and operations. This paper examines the technical and economic impacts on the delivery system due to the presence of these new production sources, particularly those problems arising from their intermittent nature. A methodology for distribution planners and operators is presented as a unified framework that assesses the technical and economic impacts on planning and operations. Case studies using distribution system data and renewable resource data from specific utilities are analyzed to gain insights into the technical and economic impacts. The paper concludes with some general observations on how future distribution planning and operating processes may be changed as the distribution system is integrated with increased intermittent power sources.