Wind Turbines Allocation in Smart Grids

The existing passive distribution networks, characterized by unidirectional power flows and a partial and centralized control, limit optimal management of Renewable Energy Sources (RES), therefore restraining their exploitation. A deep revision of the planning and management methodologies for distribution electrical networks is therefore required due to the increasing penetration of RES in distribution electrical networks In order to overcome the integration problems of Distributed Generation (DG) and RES, existing electrical distribution networks will, therefore, evolve from passive to active networks and smart grids, managed through systems based on Information and Communication Technology (ICT). In this paper a hybrid optimization method able to maximize the Net Present Value related to the investment made by Wind Turbines developers in an active distribution network and smart grids is proposed. The method, that combines Genetic Algorithms with a multi-period optimal power flow, is validated on a 69-bus 11 kV radial distribution network.