Evaluating the feasibility of operation and planning practices for mutual benefits of DNOs and power developers

In the UK, the power sector is moving away from the traditional centrally controlled power system to a decentralized power system, where a greater number of generation plants are connected to the distribution networks. However, incorporating distributed generators (DGs) into distribution networks faces several challenges because the allowable hosting capacity is restricted due to network constraints. In contrast to the most recent researches which investigated the feasibility of active network management practices for the benefits of either distribution network operators (DNOs) or power developers. This study focuses on investigating the feasibility of different operation and planning practices for the mutual benefits of both DNOs and developers. A representative UK 11 kV distribution network is modelled for comparative analyses and, the feasibility of each operation and planning practice is assessed over a 10-year period in terms of the additional DG capacity accommodated, the reduced network losses and network reinforcement costs. The main contributions of the research are therefore: (1) Quantifying the benefits of voltage control schemes using passive/active network management and power factor control of the DGs; (2) Quantifying the benefits of switchgear reinforcement at the primary distribution busbar; and (3) Proposing a competent hybrid optimization toolbox based on particle swarm optimization and pattern search to solve the operational-planning problem. It is concluded that operating the network under coordinated voltage control, dispatching DGs power factor and upgrading the switchgears at the primary distribution busbar enhance the mutual benefits of the power developers and DNOs. Moreover, the competency of the proposed hybrid solver is clarified in terms of the results quality and computational time. The results provide the decision makers with the flexibility to apply different options to increase the profit.