The Value of Smart Inverter Control in Distribution Energy Management Systems and Virtual Power Plants, and Opportunities for South Africa

R. Xavier, B. Bekker, M. J. Chihota
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引用次数: 2

Abstract

The rising penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) in distribution networks can lead to various technical challenges, including poor power quality and system instability. To mitigate these challenges, distribution network operators and regulators are looking towards the coordinated control of smart inverter-based DERs to support the utility grid and provide additional services. Smart inverters have advanced grid supportive functions that assist the utility in maintaining power quality and stability. However, it is not practical for network operators to directly monitor and control each individual inverter and DER. As a result, distribution energy resource management systems (DERMS) and virtual power plants (VPPs) are being tested out in international states with high leading renewable energy penetration, such as Hawaii, Arizona, California and Victoria. DERMS and VPPs can aggregate and optimize the performance of various DERs through smart inverters. This paper investigates the characteristics and benefits of the existing coordinated control techniques of smart inverters as applied in contexts of high DER penetration internationally. The value of smart inverter coordinated control is presented through a literature review and international examples. Based on the review of international practice, recommendations for South Africa are made considering the local context regarding existing infrastructure and grid regulation restrictions, which affect the necessary communications protocol for coordinated control through a DERMS or VPP. The paper finds that VPPs or DERMS in South Africa are feasible, but with the relevant cybersecurity measures and technical regulations update for smart inverter functionality.
智能逆变器控制在配电能源管理系统和虚拟电厂中的价值,以及南非的机遇
分布式能源(DERs)在配电网中的日益普及会带来各种技术挑战,包括电能质量差和系统不稳定。为了缓解这些挑战,配电网运营商和监管机构正在寻求基于智能逆变器的分布式电源的协调控制,以支持公用电网并提供额外的服务。智能逆变器具有先进的电网支持功能,可帮助公用事业公司保持电能质量和稳定性。然而,对于网络运营商来说,直接监控和控制每个单独的逆变器和DER是不现实的。因此,分配能源管理系统(DERMS)和虚拟发电厂(vpp)正在可再生能源普及率较高的国际州进行测试,如夏威夷、亚利桑那州、加利福尼亚州和维多利亚州。DERMS和vpp可以通过智能逆变器聚合和优化各种der的性能。本文研究了国际上现有的智能逆变器协调控制技术的特点和优点,并将其应用于高DER渗透环境中。通过文献综述和国际上的实例,阐述了智能逆变器协调控制的价值。在对国际实践的回顾基础上,考虑到当地现有基础设施和电网监管限制的情况,为南非提出了建议,这些限制会影响通过DERMS或VPP进行协调控制所需的通信协议。本文发现南非的vpp或DERMS是可行的,但需要相关的网络安全措施和智能逆变器功能的技术法规更新。
本文章由计算机程序翻译,如有差异,请以英文原文为准。
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