Reverse Power Flow in Distribution Networks: Impacts, Challenges, Issues, and Technologies

The integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) like solar PV, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems brings radical changes in contemporary power systems. This change has resulted in the concept of reverse power flow (RPF), where surplus power produced from DERs is returned to the more extensive highvoltage transmission system from the distribution network instead of the normal power flow from the transmission system to the distribution system. This paper also shows that reverse power flow constitutes variability and changes in voltage, equipment stress, and protection changes in the grid. These disturbances can affect quality, cause additional stress for the structures involved, and require changes in management and concepts of power systems. It is the purpose of this paper to attempt to canvass the impacts and issues that arise from the idea of reverse power flow in distribution grid systems. Furthermore, it examines the countermeasures, including smart inverters, demand response, and energy storage, concerning the negative effects of RPF. The paper underscores new possibilities for enhancing the stability and efficiency of the grid when facing higher levels of distributed generation.