Reliability Assessment of Smart Distribution Networks

The paper investigates impact of 'smart' solutions on the reliability of distribution networks. The overall problem is formulated as a sequential Monte Carlo simulation model to accurately represent various chronological phenomena. The smart solutions evaluated include dynamic network reconfiguration, connection of wind turbines at favorable locations, as well as installation of an innovative composite system in which a wind generator is combined with an on-site energy storage system. All these operational and construction activities contribute individually to the increased reliability of the distribution networks. Dynamic network restoration is probably the most important action for all customers supplied from the feeder main that can be back-fed. For other customers, installation of distributed generators, which can operate in islanding mode, can significantly improve the reliability of supplies. Furthermore, the randomness and intermittency of wind generation is efficiently managed by deploying the composite system consisting of generation and energy storage. The developed methodology is tested on several medium voltage networks.