Multiperiod Optimum Power Flow for Active Distribution Networks With Provisioning of Ancillary Services

Distribution networks are suffering a transformation process with the insertion of distributed energy resources, changing from a passive part of the power grid into an active system. Aiming to reduce the challenges for the distribution system operators to keep the power grid operating inside of the quality levels it is possible to propose some ancillary services. Optimum Power flow is an optimization method used to plan the distribution grid operation. Additionally, the distributed energy resources can be modeled on it and ancillary services provisioning can be considered, as proposed in this work. In this way, the objective of the present work is to formulate a Multiperiod Optimum Power Flow (MPOPF) with the insertion of distributed generation, energy storage systems, microgrids, and electric vehicles at the distribution grid. This MPOPF considers the provisioning of ancillary services by the inverters associated with the equipment connected to the main grid. In the formulation, the entire grid is modeled, considering the placement of classic equipment as a voltage regulator and capacitor banks, in addition to modern technologies as DFACTS (Distribution - Flexible AC Transmission System) and four-quadrant inverters. The MPOPF was simulated for several scenarios considering a 90-bus test feeder and a real distribution grid from Curitiba - Brazil. From the results, the MPOPF proved to be highly robust, being able to simulate the grid with all the equipment connected simultaneously, performing the optimal dispatch of active and reactive power, as well as allowing the operation of ancillary services such as voltage support, peak-shaving, and demand-side management.