Review of control strategies for voltage regulation of the smart distribution network with high penetration of renewable distributed generation

Integration of renewable energy sources (RES) into traditional power system is one of the most viable technologies to meet the ever increasing energy demand efficiently. But, this technology arises a lot of challenges which are necessary to be taken care of for smooth operation of the network. Voltage regulation is the most significant technical challenge that tends to limit the amount of penetration of renewable distribution generators (DGs) into the distribution network. This paper attempts to present a detailed review of the control strategies that are being utilized to mitigate voltage regulation challenges when increased amount of renewable DGs are connected within the distribution network. This study analyses the direct impacts of increased accommodation of renewable DGs on the distribution network operation and evaluates current research status of voltage control strategies. Then qualitative analysis is performed for all kinds of voltage control approaches involving their pros and cons for the first time. The objective of this contribution is to present the latest research status of distribution system voltage control strategies with highly penetrated renewable DGs and a brief review of different control methodologies.