Optimization of Virtual Power Plant Topology with Distributed Generation Sources

The article is devoted to the construction of the Virtual Power Plant (VPP) distribution network (DN), which unites sources of distributed generation and a centralized electrical network. Graph theory and structural-topological analysis are used to determining the optimal VPP DN topology. The main idea is to assess the reliability and efficiency of VPP DN on the basis of structural-topological characteristics of its graphs. The results of calculations for a low-voltage VPP DN with a wind power plant and a gas piston unit are presented. The PSCAD model of VPP DN is described, which explores the dependencies of VPP DN parameters on its topologies and operating modes. A physical model VPP DN has been developed: it consists of simulators of wind and solar power plants, power storage devices, loads and power lines. On the basis of the physical model, a study of the quality of electricity in VPP DN depending on the ratio of the power of the centralized electrical network and the distributed generation sources has been carried out. Based on the results of the study, an algorithm for determining the optimal VPP DN topology has been developed.