Distribution feeder hosting capacity analysis

Abstract

The ability to establish the limits of distribution feeders is crucial from a distribution planning perspective. Particularly when the recent emergence of distributed energy resources is considered. Planners need to ensure that the addition of these resources to distribution systems will not result in violations of feeder limits, and be aware of the point at which system upgrades or management schemes need to be considered. The work in this paper employs a three-phase optimal power flow formulation to determine generic feeder hosting capacities for load and generation. Various hosting capacities are assessed, with the purpose of providing distribution system planners with critical information regarding the limits of their feeders. The formulation detects locations that may be troublesome, and defines the limiting factors of the feeder.