Initial design and specification of a scheme to actively manage the Orkney distribution network

In order to meet national and international renewable energy targets, new methods of operating and managing electricity distribution networks are required. Renewable energy sources are abundant in Scotland but mainly exist in the west and north of the country, away from the main load centres. These sparsely populated areas are serviced by weaker distribution networks, which struggle to accommodate the introduction of large generator connections. These connections challenge the mode of operation of the distribution network, which was designed originally to operate passively and deliver unidirectional power flows to dispersed customers. If renewable energy connections to the distribution network are to be realised, without expensive uprating of existing network infrastructure, active network management is required.