Reliability Calculations with Smart Grid Technologies in Distribution Grids

Abstract

Various studies show that smart grid technologies are applicable solutions to meet rising technical and economic challenges in distribution grids. This includes decentralized network automation systems, voltage-regulated MV/LV distribution transformers, line voltage regulators and an optimisation of HV/MV transformer voltage control. However, the impact of smart grid technologies on customer and distributed generation reliability is still uncertain and cannot be sufficiently evaluated with existing reliability software. Therefore new methods and models for smart grid technologies have been developed. In this contribution, this is enhanced by a new model for a HV/MV transformer. This includes a limited state and an optimisation of voltage control for normal operating conditions. Based on these models and different operating points, analytical reliability calculations of a real exemplary MV network are performed. The effects of smart grid technologies are evaluated and discussed by using existing and new reliability indices.