Voltage control in networks with distributed generation — A case study

This paper analyzes the influence of distributed energy resources (DER) on distribution network voltage profile. A general description of the impact of DER on voltage profile is given and three advanced voltage control techniques are discussed: central voltage control with multiple voltage measurements, reactive power control with sources that enable such operation and the use of an autotransformer as a voltage regulator. The aim was to maximize and to facilitate DER integration. The influence of DER on voltage profile and the effectiveness of the investigated solutions were evaluated by means of simulation in DIgSILENT. The simulated network was an actual distribution network in Slovenia with a relatively high penetration of distributed generation. Recommendations for voltage control in networks with DER penetration are given at the end.