Flexible distribution network: definition, configuration, operation, and pilot project

Abstract

In this article, a new concept of flexible distribution network (FDN) is proposed for the power grid with increasing distributed energy resources (DERs) and power electronic devices. First, the authors define FDN as a flexible closed‐loop operation smart distribution network with the capability of wide‐area energy exchange. In FDNs, flexible networking devices are the key facilities, which upgrade traditional networking devices by soft open point (SOP). Second, several typical network configurations of FDN are presented, which facilitate smooth upgrades from traditional networks to FDNs. Third, the normal operation mode, N − 1 mode, and the related analysis methods of FDN are presented. Finally, the world's first three‐terminal SOP‐based FDN pilot project is introduced and analysed to demonstrate the advantages of FDN in controlling power flow and integrating DERs.