Operational vs. structural strategies for distribution grid planning in Smart Grids context

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis tool which aims to identify the constraints in a distribution network subject to aging and appearance of distributed generation and electrical vehicles. In order to regulate the network, the use of new functionalities from Smart Grids is proposed as an alternative to the conventional structural solutions like reinforcement. Different operational strategies - load shedding, reconfiguration, and distributed generation control - are compared.