A Composable Method for Real-Time Control of Active Distribution Networks with Explicit Power Setpoints

TL;DR

This paper introduces a scalable, composable method for real-time control of active distribution networks using explicit power setpoints, addressing limitations of traditional frequency and voltage regulation methods in complex, resource-rich systems.

Contribution

It proposes a novel, intractability-avoiding control framework based on a composable model that enables explicit, real-time power setpoint management for large and diverse distribution networks.

Findings

Framework effectively manages complex distribution systems

Implementation demonstrates improved control and resource aggregation

Scalable approach suitable for large microgrids

Abstract

The conventional approach for the control of distribution networks, in the presence of active generation and/or controllable loads and storage, involves a combination of both frequency and voltage regulation at different time scales. With the increased penetration of stochastic resources, distributed generation and demand response, this approach shows severe limitations in both the optimal and feasible operation of these networks, as well as in the aggregation of the network resources for upper-layer power systems. An alternative approach is to directly control the targeted grid by defining explicit and real-time setpoints for active/reactive power absorptions/injections defined by a solution of a specific optimization problem; but this quickly becomes intractable when systems get large or diverse. In this paper, we address this problem and propose a method for the explicit control of the grid status, based on a common abstract model characterized by the main property of being composable. That is to say, subsystems can be aggregated into virtual devices that hide their internal complexity. Thus the proposed method can easily cope with systems of any size or complexity. The framework is presented in this Part I, whilst in Part II we illustrate its application to a CIGR\'E low voltage benchmark microgrid. In particular, we provide implementation examples with respect to typical devices connected to distribution networks and evaluate of the performance and benefits of the proposed control framework.