Network distributed generation capacity analysis using OPF with voltage step constraints

The capacity of distributed generation (DG) connected in distribution networks is increasing, largely as part of the drive to connect renewable energy sources. The voltage step change that occurs on the sudden disconnection of a distributed generator is one of the areas of concern for distribution network operators in determining whether DG can be connected, although there are differences in utility practice in applying limits. To explore how voltage step limits influence the amount of DG that can be connected within a distribution network, voltage step constraints have been incorporated within an established optimal power flow (OPF) based method for determining the capacity of the network to accommodate DG. The analysis shows that strict voltage step constraints have a more significant impact on ability of the network to accommodate DG than placing the same bound on voltage rise. Further, it demonstrates that progressively wider step change limits deliver a significant benefit in enabling greater amounts of DG to connect. © 2009 IEEE.