Real time benefit computation for electric distribution system automation and control

Smart grid technologies are expected to increase system efficiency and reliability using advancement in automation, communication, computation and optimization. Several control algorithms have been developed or enhanced for operation and control of smart distribution grid including Fault Detection, Isolation and service Restoration (FDIR), Optimal Feeder Reconfiguration (OFR), and Volt/Var Control (VVC). In recent years, VVC algorithms have been proposed for energy saving in distribution systems due to advancement provided by smart grid automation and control. VVC helps to lower distribution feeder voltage to decrease energy consumption. However, quantification of this impact is hard due to several external factors such as weather and end users behavior. On the other hand, existing evaluation methods of VVC algorithms are either not suitable for long-term study or intrusive. This paper addresses these issues by proposing a new technique to estimate `distribution system demand without smart grid implementation' utilizing `data measured from system with smart grid implementation'. Inter-dependency of voltage and load is considered based on estimated load characteristic. An estimation method is developed to find energy saving in real time due to VVC smart grid control algorithms. Developed algorithm is tested on real distribution feeder, implemented in industry and indicates satisfactory results.