Developing Use Cases for the Evaluation of ADMS Applications to Accelerate Technology Adoption

Grid modernization for distribution systems comprises the ability to effectively monitor and manage unplanned events while ensuring reliable operation. The integration of distributed energy resources and the proliferation of autonomous smart controllers such as microgrids and smart inverters in distribution networks challenges the status quo of distribution system operation. Advanced distribution management system (ADMS) technologies are being increasingly deployed to manage the complexities of operating distribution systems. The ability to evaluate the ADMS applications in specific utility environments and for future scenarios will accelerate wider adoption of the ADMS and will lower the risks and costs of their implementation. This paper addresses the first step: to identify and define the use cases for evaluating these applications. The applications that are selected for this discussion include volt-VAr optimization (VVO), fault location isolation and service restoration (FLISR), online power flow (OLPF) and distribution system state estimation (DSSE), and market participation. A technical description and general operational requirements for each of these applications is presented. The test scenarios that are most relevant to the utility challenges are also addressed.