Optimal Energy and Reserve Markets Participation of Flexible Loads in an Active Distribution Network

In this paper, we present an optimal operation model for an active distribution utility with inflexible and flexible loads. The proposed model addresses how the flexible loads should be operated to minimize the utility operation cost as well as maintaining the distribution network safe. Moreover, we analyze how the flexible loads can provide the reserve service for the electricity market with highly renewable resources penetration. Assuming T time intervals, we determine the optimal energy and reserve bids to the electricity market that minimize energy procurement cost of the utility and fully comply with the operational standards of the distribution network. From a set of numerical experiments on the 33-bus system, we present the advantages of our proposed model.