Utilization of distributed energy resources’ flexibility in power system operation – Evaluation of today’s status and description of a future concept

In the future power system the massive amounts of distributed generation, in particular at low-voltage level, will increase the need for distributed monitoring and control, and for improved resource management in the distribution grid. This paper is based on research from two projects: EU (FP7) ELECTRA IRP (2013-2018) and FME CINELDI (2016-2024). ELECTRA proposes a future (2030+) decentralized control architecture (Web-of-Cells) for balance (including frequency) and voltage control, as opposed to the current centralized control approach typical of Transmission System Operators (TSOs). CINELDI, based on today’s status, is exploring the needs for, and the possibilities of, exploitation of flexible resources for power system control towards 2030/2040. In cooperation these research projects can give a contribution to achieve future effective coordination among the stakeholders, in particular between TSOs and Distribution System Operators (DSOs).