Medium voltage network planning considering distributed generation and demand side management

Curtailment of distributed generation and demand side management may be a feasible alternative to network expansions in future medium voltage networks. Hence both must be considered in network planning today to develop cost efficient networks. Different control strategies are possible and each will result in a distinct optimal network structure. Network and energy costs will also differ. So far network operators and regulators do not know what control strategy should be striven for. Furthermore no planning algorithm exists that allows considering different control strategies. In this paper, a new algorithm is presented in this paper to solve the planning and control problem in an integrated manner. The distribution system operator of the city of Aachen (STAWAG) has decided to use this algorithm to evaluate different control strategies and derive an optimal long term network structure. The results of this study are also elaborated in the following.