In the quest to balance the grid’s vulnerability and the growing integration of renewable energy sources, researchers are turning to distributed energy storage systems as a critical solution. A recent study led by ZHU Peixue, from the School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at China Jiliang University, has shed new light on how to strategically place and size these storage systems to bolster the resilience of active distribution networks. The findings, published in ‘Diance yu yibiao’ (which translates to ‘Power System Protection and Control’), offer a novel approach that could revolutionize how utilities manage the complexities of modern power grids.
The research focuses on the dual challenge of integrating large-scale distributed power while mitigating the increased vulnerability of active distribution networks. ZHU Peixue and his team propose a double-layer optimization scheme for distributed energy storage, aiming to enhance both economic benefits and operational stability. “The key is to find the optimal balance between economic viability and the technical improvements that energy storage can bring to the grid,” ZHU explains. “By using the Gini coefficient and Theil entropy theory, we can evaluate the uniformity of power transmission and the equilibrium of voltage shock distribution, which are crucial for identifying the most vulnerable nodes in the network.”
The study introduces a comprehensive vulnerability index that considers both the structural and operational states of the network. This index helps in defining the optimal installation scope for distributed energy storage devices. The outer layer of the optimization scheme focuses on maximizing economic benefits, while the inner layer targets the best peak shaving and valley filling effects. The particle swarm optimization algorithm is employed to solve for the energy storage capacity, ensuring that the storage systems are both effective and cost-efficient.
The practical implications of this research are significant for the energy sector. As the world moves towards a more decentralized and renewable energy landscape, the ability to strategically place and size distributed energy storage systems will be crucial. Utilities and grid operators can use these findings to enhance the reliability and efficiency of their networks, ultimately leading to better service for consumers and reduced operational costs. “This method not only improves the vulnerability of the active distribution network but also provides economic advantages,” ZHU notes.
The study’s results, validated through calculations on the IEEE 33-node system, demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed energy storage configuration method. This approach could pave the way for future developments in smart grid technologies, where distributed energy storage plays a pivotal role in maintaining grid stability and integrating renewable energy sources.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, research like ZHU Peixue’s will be instrumental in shaping the future of power distribution. By providing a robust framework for optimizing distributed energy storage, this study offers a roadmap for utilities to navigate the complexities of modern grid management, ensuring a more resilient and efficient energy infrastructure for all.
