Meeting new distribution power system challenges

Distribution utilities are facing challenges arising from rapid technology developments coupled with strong drivers to minimize operating and capital expenditures. Embedded generation including solar rooftop PVs and other demand management means do not only change the demand profile of the system but also other electrical characteristics of the distribution network. Advanced power system analysis tools are required to address the needs for more accurate modelling. The ability to integrate with other enterprise software systems offers opportunities to achieve efficiency gains in day-to-day operations as well as investment planning. Three projects undertaken by the authors are selected to illustrate how the new challenges are resolved using advanced analysis tools. The projects include the modelling of PV and battery inverter systems on distribution system, calculation and optimization of distribution losses, and fast assessment of domestic PV connection based on GIS and asset management data.