Investigating the impact of decentralized energy storage systems in active low-voltage distribution networks

Photovoltaic (PV) penetration in Low-Voltage (LV) networks is expected to increase in the following years, posing a series of problems in the operation pf low-voltage networks. Among the most important challenges imposed, is the reverse power flow caused by high injected energy from distributed PVs during peak irradiation hours. This is the reason of voltage rises above the permissible limits. Amongst other solutions, such as active power curtailment and reactive power absorption, the installation of distributed Energy Storage Systems (ESS) seems to be an attractive solution since it can absorb surplus power locally, avoiding curtailment methods, power flow losses on the feeder and grid reinforcements. As the cost of storage is decreasing, ESS are expected to be increasingly adopted by prosumers. This work evaluates the influence of such systems on the voltage profile of LV feeders and on the self-consumed energy of prosumers. Intensive simulations on a benchmark feeder assess the conflicted benefits of power system operators and ESS owners.