State-of-the-Art Techniques and Challenges Ahead for Distributed Generation Planning and Optimization

TLDR

Estimating future distributed generation capacity is difficult, and despite numerous studies, widespread implementation of DG integration methods remains limited, underscoring the need for robust planning tools. The Task Force reviews strategies and methods developed for distributed generation integration and planning. The paper critically reviews recent DG integration and planning work. The paper identifies barriers to adopting advanced DG techniques and outlines key challenges that must be addressed for smarter distribution networks.

Abstract

It is difficult to estimate how much distributed generation (DG) capacity will be connected to distribution systems in the coming years; however, it is certain that increasing penetration levels require robust tools that help assess the capabilities and requirements of the networks in order to produce the best planning and control strategies. The work of this Task Force is focused on the numerous strategies and methods that have been developed in recent years to address DG integration and planning. This paper contains a critical review of the work in this field. Although there have been numerous publications in this area, widespread implementation of the methods has not taken place. The barriers to implementation of the advanced techniques are outlined, highlighting why network operators have been slow to pick up on the research to date. Furthermore, key challenges ahead which remain to be tackled are also described, many of which have come into clear focus with the current drive towards smarter distribution networks.