The project deals with new models for management of active distribution grids in presence of Energy Storage Systems (ESSs) and prosumers, including Electrical Vehicles (EVs) charging systems. The presence of these components in a distribution grid can guarantee the opportunity to optimize the use of the production of electrical power from distributed renewables-based generators (Dispersed Generation, DG) and to solve together technical problems in respect of the transmission grid.
The research activities will concern new methodologies for the analysis of distribution grids linked to new operation strategies in grid-connected and in island operation mode.
The key stages of the research will be:
- to do a complete analysis of the actual architectures and schemes of active distribution grids, also in terms of automation and control technique for the operation in normal and emergency conditions;
- to propose new operation approaches, implementable by a Distribution System Operator (DSO), based on optimal management of the DG, controllable loads (e.g. EV charging systems) and ESSs;
- to implement models, in an appropriate simulation software (e.g. MatLab), for the analysis of the benefits that the proposed operation approaches from the point of view of DSO and of the TSO;
- to apply the models to real case studies of active distribution grids with ESSs and EVs charging stations.
In respect to the potential to achieve an advancement of knowledge in relation to stat of art, the innovativeness of the research is linked to the proposal of new methodologies of analysis of distribution grids (in presence of DG, ESSs and prosumers, as EVs charging systems), linked to the new operation and management techniques, that will be selected in function of possible scenarios of evolution of actual standards and regulation policies (just under review at National and European level).
So the research results will allow:
- to have a complete critical analysis of the actual architectures and schemes of active distribution grids, also in terms of automation and control technique for the operation in normal and emergency conditions;
- to have a tool for the analysis of distribution grids (in presence of DG, ESSs and prosumers , as EVs charging systems), linked to the new operation and management techniques, able to make a benefit analysis.