The Impact of Distributed Generation on Power Transmission Grid Dynamics

In this paper we investigate the impact of the introduction of distributed generation on the robustness of the power transmission grid using a dynamic model of the power transmission system (OPA). It is found that with different fractions and distributions of distributed generation, varied dynamics are possible. An important parameter is found to be the ratio of the variability of the distributed generation to the generation capacity margin. Somewhat counter-intuitively, in some of these cases the robustness of the transmission grid can be degraded with the potential for an increased risk of large failures with increased distributed generation if not done carefully.