Innovative control method for active distribution networks in an uncertain scenario

Nowadays in many countries, the increasing influence of diffuse generation (DG) in distribution networks, in particular from not-programmable Renewable Energy Resources (RES), is showing criticalities especially where the network reinforcement is very difficult because of economic or environmental factors. In addition to RES, Electric Vehicles and storage technologies are increasing both the criticalities and the opportunities for the network operation. This paper shows an advanced and innovative voltage regulation system that will be implemented in support to the existing operation procedures, where the On-Load-Tap-Changer (OLTC) will be joined by more advanced regulation resources: among them reactive and active power from DGs and storage units (operated by the DSO) represent the more significant options. The method identifies an optimal operating point according to a complete set of technical constrains (voltage at nodes, inverse power flow to HV level, etc.) and economic factors. Results of the methodology applied to a MV network sited in the Italian capital and managed by ACEA, within a national smart grid pilot project, are presented and discussed, and some conclusions are drawn.