Optimal Meter Placement for Robust Measurement Systems in Active Distribution Grids

Future active distribution grids are characterized by rapid and significant changes of operation and behavior due to, for example, intermittent power injections from renewable sources and the load-generation characteristic of the so-called prosumers. The design of a robust measurement infrastructure is critical for safe and effective grid control and operation. We had earlier proposed a placement procedure that allows finding an optimal robust measurement location incorporating phasor measurement units and smart metering devices for distribution system state estimation. In this paper, the lack of detailed information on distributed generation is also considered in the optimal meter placement procedure, so that the distributed measurement system can provide accurate estimates even with limited knowledge of the profile of the injected power. Possible non-Gaussian distribution of the distributed power generation has been taken into account. With this aim, the Gaussian mixture model has been incorporated into the placement optimization by means of the so-called Gaussian component combination method. The occurrence of either loss of data or degradation of metrological performance of the measurement devices is also considered. Tests performed on a UKGDS 16-bus distribution network are presented and discussed.

I. Introduction

In future active distribution grids, the nature of increasing dynamics and uncertain behavior of the distributed generations (DGs) and new actors at the demand side call for a real-time reliable monitoring system as a fundamental element to meet new control needs [1]–[3]. Currently, distribution grids lack in sufficient metering infrastructure. Because of cost reasons, a full deployment of the required measurement devices throughout the distribution grids is not feasible. Therefore, a reliable and accurate awareness of system conditions must be achieved via distribution system state estimation (DSSE) incorporating all available measurement data.