Distribution system operation and planning in the presence of distributed generation technology

Distributed generation (DG) is becoming an increasingly attractive multi-faceted paradigm in the field of power distribution as economic and environmental factors drive new technologies to be more efficient and less polluting than their earlier counterparts. An attempt is made to examine and compare three types of DG: diesel generators, microturbines, and small wind turbines within the structure of a distribution system. The DG types are compared in both steady-state and transient operation to determine which type is suitable for a particular application. Steady-state operation is examined under heavy loading conditions and each DG type is compared on the basis of the voltage profile improvement and power loss reduction. Transient operation is examined during islanding conditions. The results indicate improvement in the steady-state conditions of a system from DG, but also indicate some significant problems during relatively minor transient events.