Generation Expansion Planning considering the development of Renewable Zones and Load Distribution Factors

Planning and operation are the keys to managing electric power systems. However, when an electricity sector adopts a market scheme, the economic component becomes crucial in these two pillars. In particular, the expansion of generation problem (GEP) undergoes significant changes, as in an electric power system operating under a competitive structure, because decisions regarding generation growth become the responsibility of Market Participants. This trend positions the Independent System Operator (ISO) in a role closer to that of a resource administrator rather than a direct decision-maker. To strengthen the decision-making process of the ISO in the GEP. A novel methodology is proposed that considers the development of zones with high potential for renewable generation. This methodology consists of a linear programming optimization model that encompasses the coordination of the development of such zones, with the interconnection requests submitted by Market Participants. This proposal incorporates the use of Load Distribution Factors, which allow for more efficient modeling of demand growth in system areas where measurements do not exist. The effectiveness of this proposal is assessed by using the 24-node IEEE system. The results demonstrate the possibility of identifying areas whose development leads to economic improvements. Furthermore, the coordination of interconnection requests significantly enhances the economic operation of the power system.