Tracing, Ranking and Valuation of Aggregated DER Flexibility in Active Distribution Networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel framework combining AC optimal power flow models and cooperative game theory to effectively trace, rank, and value aggregated DER flexibility in active distribution networks, aiding DSOs in managing complex DER interactions.

Contribution

It presents a new framework that integrates exact AC OPF models with cooperative game theory for DER flexibility analysis in ADNs, including no-swap constraints and nonlinearity metrics.

Findings

Framework accurately ranks critical flexible units.

Enables valuation of DER flexibility based on economic surplus.

Identifies unreliable operating regions with power swaps.

Abstract

The integration of distributed energy resources (DER) makes active distribution networks (ADNs) natural providers of flexibility services. However, the optimal operation of flexible units in ADNs is highly complex, which poses challenges for distribution system operators (DSOs) in aggregating DER flexibility. For example, to maximise the provision of services, flexible units must be strongly coordinated to manage network constraints, e.g., perform power swaps. Furthermore, due to the nonlinearities of aggregated DER flexibility provision, some units may need to rapidly change their outputs to enable the services. To address these challenges, this paper brings together exact AC optimal power flow (OPF) models and a cooperative game formulation and presents a new framework for tracing, ranking, and valuation of aggregated DER flexibility in ADNs. Extensive tests and simulations performed for the 33-bus radial distribution network demonstrate that the framework enables translating complex DER interactions into useful information for DSOs by ranking the criticality of flexible units and performing flexibility valuation based on its cost or economic surplus. Additionally, the framework proposes no-swap constraints and a nonlinearity metric which can be used by DSOs to identify unreliable operating regions with power swaps or rapid changes in flexible unit dispatch.