Firm and Non-Firm Wind Generation Planning Considering Distribution Network Sterilization

Conventional generation is no longer the only source of electricity, as medium and small-scale units, mostly referred to as distributed generation, are increasingly being connected to the power system. This paper introduces a planning methodology, based on AC optimal power flow, which takes a detailed account of the network sterilization effect and maximizes the net power export from the distribution network to the transmission network. It also introduces a mathematical formulation of the reactive power capabilities that are consistent with the reactive power limitations of the wind turbine generators. A comparison is made between the generation planning results, in terms of sterilization characteristics, when using the nameplate and extended reactive power capability, for both firm and non-firm (i.e., active power curtailment applies) generation. Finally, the transition from a firm to non-firm connection policy is examined.