Analysis and visualization method for understanding the voltage effect of distributed energy resources on the electric power system

While adding distributed energy resources (DER) to a distribution circuit will affect numerous aspects of operation, bus voltage is a critical aspect that must be maintained within acceptable limits. It is therefore critical to: (1) quantify how DER installation will affect the voltage, (2) visualize the voltage change, and (3) predict the voltage change of the alternatives within the DER operational space. These three goals are achieved through the development of a simple voltage change potential (VCP) visualization method that can be determined using the basic characteristics of an inverter-based DER installation. The VCP results compare favorably with equivalent complete non-linear Matlab/Simulink(TM) models of DER implementation in distribution circuits at a fraction of the computational time. Calculation of VCP also enables a new control method that uses circuit information and simple equations to provide situation-dependent and optimal voltage regulation. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.