Allocation of Dynamic Operating Envelopes in Radial Distribution Networks

TL;DR

This paper analyzes how various factors influence dynamic operating envelope calculation in distribution networks and introduces a scalable algorithm (LACE) for improved capacity allocation.

Contribution

It presents a novel DOE algorithm (LACE) that enhances scalability and transparency for larger networks and combined optimization tasks.

Findings

DOE is affected by power flow model, network constraints, and calculation case.

The LACE algorithm offers scalable and transparent DOE computation.

Numerical simulations validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Abstract

This paper provides an in-depth analysis on how different aspects of the dynamic operating envelope (DOE) formulation impact the computation and allocation of network capacity. We show that the envelopes are significantly affected by the power flow model (non-linear or linear), binding network constraint (thermal or voltage) and by the calculation case (import or export envelope). We also propose a novel DOE algorithm (LACE) that presents transparent and scalable computation that is useful for larger networks or to act in tandem with other optimization engines. We run numerical simulations with different test feeders, including a realistic low-voltage feeder with real-world data from Belgium. This paper provides crucial insights and tools to distribution system operators (DSOs), stakeholders and academics alike to make sure DOE calculation achieves desirable and efficient outcome.