Modelling of Embedded Generation within Distribution Networks and Assessing the Impact

Completed

Renewable Energy Sources(Wind Energy)
Other Power and Storage Technologies(Electricity transmission and distribution)
Renewable Energy Sources(Solar Energy)

Applied Research and Development

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)

Not Cross-cutting

Project Contact
National Grid Electricity Transmission

Network Innovation Allowance

Ofgem

01 August 2012

01 August 2014

24 months

£42,000

Power

London

Network Innovation Allowance

Project Contact, National Grid Electricity Transmission

A literature review on various assumptions and methodologies adopted for modelling embedded generation in distribution networks for power system planning in the GB system (e.g. P2/6 Standard). Investigation of different methodologies and their effectiveness in modelling the impacts of embedded generators on load profiles at distribution and transmission level. Investigation of contribution factors responsible for large, small and medium mismatches. Development of alternative modelling methodologies, using the identified key contribution factors to minimise the mismatches between the modelled and measured results. Testing and validation of the developed modelling methodologies on a wide range of GSPs A report documenting the key findings. This project is successful if we improve the understanding of the impact of embedded generation on the demand seen at the transmission level.

The transition to a low carbon economy will see a substantial rise of renewables in our energy mix. By 2030, around 48 GW of wind is expected to be installed on the GB system, of which, up to 40% is expected to be connected at distribution systems, ranging from LV, HV to EHV. This will fundamentally change the demand patterns seen at the Grid Supply Points (GSP) connecting to the transmission system. Currently there are no reliable tools to accurately determine the impact of DGs on the demand patterns at the transmission level, particularly, considering the effects of DG concentration, location and penetrations across the three voltages. This project will develop methodologies to identify the collective effect of DGs on the national transmission system, so as to reduce load forecasting errors, which will in turn reduce the level of operational reserve. This will ultimately lead to much improved balancing efficiency and carbon efficiency. Furthermore with the increased visibility on embedded generation, which this research is expected to deliver, a more accurate representation of the demand can be used in planning the system. Research The method proposed includes: Literature review on various assumptions and methodologies for modelling embedded generation in distribution networks and Investigation of different methodologies and their effectiveness Investigation of the contribution factors for large, small and medium mismatches Development of alternative modelling methodologies aiming at minimising the mismatches between modelled and actual EG contribution + Interim report Documenting Key Findings Test and validate the developed modelling methodologies on a wide range of GSPs, further enhance the alternative modelling and develop a set of rules for the GB systems + Final ReportNote : Project Documents may be available via the ENA Smarter Networks Portal using the Website link above

14/09/18