In the rapidly evolving energy landscape, the integration of renewable energy sources and electric vehicle infrastructure has presented both opportunities and challenges for power distribution systems. A recent study published in *China Electric Power* offers a novel approach to tackle two pressing issues: distribution transformer overload and three-phase imbalance, both exacerbated by the proliferation of single-phase distributed photovoltaic systems and charging piles.
Led by Qiang Yang of the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Electric Power Equipment Reliability, the research proposes a differentiated governance strategy that considers source-load regulation. This approach aims to mitigate the mixed problems of three-phase imbalance and heavy overload in distribution transformers, which are increasingly common as more single-phase renewable energy sources and electric vehicle charging stations come online.
“The uncertainty of photovoltaic output and charging behavior significantly impacts the three-phase imbalance and overload of distribution transformers,” Yang explained. “Our strategy addresses these challenges by integrating photovoltaic control, charging power management, energy storage, and reactive power compensation.”
The study establishes a substation imbalance and heavy overload model that accounts for the randomness of photovoltaic charging. By analyzing the influence of these variables, the researchers can identify substations with the potential for source-load regulation and cluster them for targeted control. The proposed regulation model optimizes three-phase imbalance, load rate, and network loss, using the NSGA-II algorithm and the maximum fuzzy satisfaction method to achieve coordinated control.
To validate their approach, the researchers simulated the IEEE33 node example model. The results demonstrated that the method effectively manages the mixed problems of three-phase imbalance and heavy overload in substations. This finding has significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in regions with high penetration of distributed energy resources and electric vehicle infrastructure.
“Our research provides a practical solution for utilities to enhance the reliability and efficiency of their distribution networks,” Yang noted. “By addressing these issues proactively, we can prevent equipment failures, reduce energy losses, and improve overall system performance.”
The commercial impact of this research is substantial. As the energy sector continues to transition towards decentralized and renewable energy sources, the ability to manage distribution transformer overload and three-phase imbalance will be crucial. Utilities can leverage this strategy to optimize their operations, reduce costs, and enhance service quality.
Moreover, the findings contribute to the broader conversation about smart grid technologies and the integration of renewable energy. By offering a data-driven approach to managing distribution networks, this research paves the way for more resilient and efficient energy systems.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this study will be invaluable for policymakers, utilities, and technology providers. By addressing the challenges posed by distributed energy resources and electric vehicle infrastructure, this research helps shape the future of power distribution and contributes to a more sustainable energy landscape.