Realising the potential of smart grids in LV networks. Part 1: Demand-side management

This paper, which is part one of a two-part series, analyses the influence of demand-side management (DSM) on the overall performance of distribution networks, particularly with respect to the quality of supply of low-voltage residential customers. The paper uses detailed network configurations and load models to assess changes in active/reactive power flows, system losses, voltage profiles and propagation of harmonics due to changes in the load mix as a result of DSM actions. The Part 2 paper will consider the effect of microgeneration technologies on further improvement/ deterioration of network performance.