A Review on Phasor Measurement Units and their Applications in Active Distribution Networks

Due to the progressive increase in integrating intermittent distributed generations (DGs), the proliferation of distributed energy resources (DER), and loads with the fast dynamic changes, the planning, monitoring, and operation of distribution networks are becoming a challenge. This is a transitional stage faced by today’s distribution systems from traditional passive networks characterized by unidirectional power flow to active ones with bidirectional power flow and very dynamic characteristics. The application of the recently developed phasor measurement units (PMU) which can provide up to 120 time-tagged measurements per second, can effectively handle the challenges. However, these PMUs need to have appropriate characteristics related to the distribution network vulnerability factors. This work explores and reviews distribution phasor measurement units, their applications, and their optimal placement in active distribution networks. It aims to provide a basic understanding of existing situations and the contribution of PMUs in handling challenges caused by the dynamic aspect of current distribution systems.