Optimal Allocation of Energy Storage Systems for Resilient Distribution Networks Focusing on Critical Loads

As modern-day power grids embrace more and more the new smart technologies, the distribution networks undergo a major conversion from passive to active systems, featuring various types of distributed energy resources including solar, wind generators, and storage. The energy storage systems (ESSs) capability to shift load and power generation in time comes as an efficient solution to the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources (RES) and demand variation. Beside their benefits in daily operation enhancement of the electric grid, ESSs can be an essential support for the distribution power system in the event of a major blackout. The purpose of this paper is to determine the optimal allocation of ESSs for increased reliability and resilience of the distribution network, based on renewable distributed sources generation and taking into account the presence of critical loads. In this regard, a mixed-integer second-order cone programming method is applied, aiming to maximize the assistance of renewable sources integration, while considering the network operational constraints and the prioritization of important users.