THE PROJECT

It will contribute to define the architecture of a Distribution Management System (DMS) for portion of electric distribution networks capable of managing problems of optimization, power flow control, voltage control, supply of auxiliary services from distributed generators and loads. Control logics for compensation devices will be developed in order to mitigate grid disturbances. Possible emergency conditions and restoration will be also analyzed. Innovative protections systems will be analyzed and proposed. The set-up of some models of distribution networks with distributed generation for validating the analysis on simulators and on test sites to be selected along the project development.

The project is funded by CCSE “Cassa Conguaglio per il Settore Elettrico” (Compensation Fund for the Electricity Sector) a public non-profit entity that is a “technical body of the accounting of energy systems”, under the chapter “Ricerca di Systema” (System research) aimed at innovation and development of the electricity system.

Expected benefits for users of the electric National system include:

• The increase of the participation of players in the electricity market in particular end users; the increase the integration of distributed generators (especially renewable sources) into distribution networks; the reduction of the need for new transmission lines;
• the improvement of network congestions management; the reduction of losses;
• the improvement of controllability and management of the electric grid;
• the contribution of GD to prevention (improving stability) and the recovery from emergency events (blackouts);
• the improvement of the quality of service;
• the improvement and development of specialized regulation.

The results of the Project may constitute an important basis for the development of DMS’es that really enables real-time management of electricity distribution network (with the real control of generation and load) instead of the actual off-line control procedures. The wide spread, both at MV and LV levels, of a DMS that operates as a true distributed control center capable of communicating with the higher and lower hierarchical levels – with consequent significant market potential– is expected. A technical analysis of the economic fallout will be carried out. Benefits for systematic use of standards for communication between the electricity grids and distributed generators. Suggestions and contributions to Standardization Bodies.

CONSORTIUM

A consolidated research group with a renowned academic and industrial profile.

• algoWatt SpA (IT)
• University of Genoa – DITEN (Department of Telecommunication, Naval and Electric Engineering) (IT)
• University of Bologna – Alma Mater Studiorum – DIE (Department of Electric Engineering) (IT)
• ENEL INGEGNERIA E RICERCA S.p.A. (IT)
• SDI SpA (IT)