Application of distributed generation in optimised design and operation of rural power supply networks

Changes in the economic and commercial environment of power systems design and operation have necessitated the need to consider active rural distribution networks, incorporating small generation sources. Distribution generation systems have the potential to utility integrate renewable energy sources, which are abundant in rural areas, and might be economically viable alternative to grid connections reinforcement. In this study, the effects of generation sources on the performance of an existing rural supply network, in terms of voltage levels and system efficiency, have been demonstrated. With load increases of up to 200% and by connecting small generating sources at various load busbars, it was possible to maintain the busbar voltage levels above 0.95 pu, at the rated load of each transformer, and attain an overall system operating efficiency of about 97%.