Optimization of renewable energy resources (RERs) For enhancing network performance for distribution systems

The present day power system is undergoing rapid and dynamic metamorphosis from the legacy system, in the direction of an intelligent power system. The use of renewable energy resources as distributed generation at the sub-transmission / distribution level is on the increase alongside advances in the efficiency of associated technologies. Renewable energy resources (RERs) such as wind and photovoltaic (PV) technologies that are time variant are planned for meeting variation of loads under operational and planning time horizon. PV and wind technologies are two technologies that have seen the most significant growth for use and distributed sources.;This research aims at the development of a comprehensive scheme for the optimal utilization of RERs technologies at the distribution level. For such studies, assumptions / simplifications are made with regards to the modeling of the RER technologies. Probabilistic modeling methods and Monte Carlo simulation methods are utilized for the simulation of variability for the associated studies. It is used in conjunction with distribution power flow and the optimization techniques for these studies.;In this study, the optimal methods of utilizing distributed resources for operational and planning purposes are investigated. This work aims at the implementation of a scheme for the variable modeling of distributed energy resources and an optimization scheme for the optimal placement of these technologies in the distribution system with consideration for reliability and environmental impact. This integration scheme resulting from modeling, performance index and optimization routines are tested using a 15 and 33-bus radial distribution test systems and are reported in our work.;The research contributions of this work feature: (1) The development of a modeling capability that addresses the issues of variability of the RERs technologies selected (photovoltaic and wind energy). This allows for the optimization of the use of renewable energy technologies mix over time. (2) The development of indices to monitor power quality and network performance of the distribution system. (3) The development of a non-linear optimization solution tool for the optimization of sizing and placement of RERs in the distribution system that will aid operational and planning engineers for the scheduling of resources to meet demands for distribution system.;This work is a contribution to the achievement of the objectives of integration of Renewable Energy technologies for the Smart Grid development.