Combined Monte Carlo simulation and OPF for wind turbines integration into distribution networks

In this paper, a probabilistic method to evaluate the impact of wind turbines (WTs) integration into distribution systems within a market environment is proposed. Combined Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) technique and market-based optimal power flow (OPF) are used to maximize the social welfare considering different combinations of wind generation and load demand over a year. MCS is used to model the uncertainties related to the stochastic nature of wind and the volatility of WTs' offers. The market-based OPF is solved by using step-controlled primal dual interior point method considering network constraints. The method is conceived for distribution network operators (DNOs) in order to evaluate the effect of WTs integration into the grid. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated with an 84-bus 11.4 kV radial distribution system. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.