Active power-flow management utilising operating margins for the increased connection of distributed generation

Active management provides a method to extend capacity for generation connections to distribution networks through the coordinated control of multiple network components in real-time. Identifying principles and strategies for active network management that hold for all situations will provide support to network operators and planners and form the basis for a new paradigm in utility strategy concerning the connection of distributed generation. The authors build upon previous work regarding the initial specification and economic evaluation of an active power-flow management (APFM) scheme concerned with facilitating increased generator connections. Operating margins have been identified as an essential element of the APFM scheme for the provision of network security and play a significant role in determining the economic viability of generation connected under the APFM scheme. An approach to the definition of the operating margins required to trigger generator output regulation (trimming) and tripping is introduced. These concepts are demonstrated through a case study using one of the UK generic distribution system models. The analysis considers technical, regulatory and economic factors, resulting in practical recommendations for future work and the identification of the factors that affect the implementation of such a scheme.