The benefits and challenges of the Integrated Volt/Var Optimization in the smart grid environment

This paper discusses new opportunities and challenges of Integrated Voltage and Var Optimization (IVVO) associated with the emerging high penetration of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), Distributed Energy Resources (DER), Demand Response (DR) and Plug-In Electric Vehicles (PEV) in power distribution systems. The paper addresses the impact of the IVVO application on the operation of other power system domains, the possible objectives and benefits of IVVO, and the specifics of the constraints, controllable variables, and information sources for the IVVO, all based on a holistic approach.