Chance-Constrained ADMM Approach for Decentralized Control of Distributed Energy Resources

Distribution systems are undergoing a dramatic transition from a passive circuit that routinely disseminates electric power among downstream nodes to the system with distributed energy resources. The distributed energy resources come in a variety of technologies and typically include photovoltaic (PV) arrays, thermostatically controlled loads, energy storage units. Often these resources are interfaced with the system via inverters that can adjust active and reactive power injections, thus supporting the operational performance of the system. This paper designs a control policy for such inverters using the local power flow measurements. The control actuates active and reactive power injections of the inverter-based distributed energy resources. This strategy is then incorporated into a chance constrained, decentralized optimal power flow formulation to maintain voltage levels and power flows within their limits and to mitigate the volatility of (PV) resources. Our method is shown to improve voltage regulation compliance and reduce power losses.