Evaluation of reliability performance of distribution networks implementing demand response schemes

Demand Response (DR) is likely to become key to power system operation and planning in the future. In this outlook, the successful deployment of any DR scheme will be facilitated by the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), enabling Distribution System Operators (DSOs) to actively manage their networks. Various DR applications have been proposed, mostly relevant to energy markets, while few studies are yet available on DR as a means to contribute to network capacity and on the relevant reliability implications. In this work, DR is proposed as a post fault contingency action to provide capacity release in distribution networks. The reliability performance of the proposed scheme is assessed through Sequential Monte Carlo Simulations (SMCS) taking into account both electrical and ICT failures. Customer Interruptions (CI) and Customers Minutes Lost (CML) are evaluated in addition to the classical load point reliability indices. DR customers are disconnected according to a priority list with the aim of not breaching network constraints after a fault occurs. As case studies, two different DR control strategies are introduced and compared based on their reliability performance for different DR availability levels.