Maximising wind generation through optimised operation of on-load tap changing transformers in active distribution networks

• Published in: Journal of engineering (Stevenage, England) England), 2017, Vol.2017 (13), p.2339-2344
• Main Authors: Danzerl, Daniel, Gill, Simon, Anaya-Lara, Olimpo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: active distribution networks; distribution network voltage; distribution networks; life‐span cost; load flow; low carbon generators; minimum maintenance cost; network hosting capacity; on load tap changers; on‐load tap changing transformers; optimised set‐point voltage technique; realistic 289‐node UK generic distribution network; time series; time‐series optimal power flow simulations; voltage 11 kV; voltage rise problem; wind generation; wind penetration
• ISSN: 2051-3305; 2051-3305
• DOI: 10.1049/joe.2017.0749

On-load tap changing transformers are the most common control device to regulate and maintain distribution network voltage within required limits. Voltage rise issues on the other hand have become a major factor limiting greater penetration of low carbon generators, particularly in weak distribution networks. Here, the voltage rise problem is addressed through the application of optimised set-point voltage technique that aims to improve network hosting capacity to accommodate high wind penetration. It assesses the effectiveness of the technique on a realistic 289-node UK generic 11 kV distribution network using time-series optimal power flow simulations. The results reveal that when the tap changer is operated at the optimised set-point voltage, it can lead to greater energy yields. It also shows a reduction in the number of tap changing operations when the transformer is operated within the optimised deadband allowing for an improved life-span and minimum maintenance cost.