A two‐stage reactive power optimization method for distribution networks based on a hybrid model and data‐driven approach

Abstract

AbstractThe uncertainty of distributed energy resources (DERs) and loads in distribution networks poses challenges for reactive power optimization and control timeliness. The computational limitations of the traditional algorithms and the development of artificial intelligence (AI) based technologies have promoted the advancement of hybrid model‐data‐driven algorithms. This article proposes a two‐stage reactive power optimization method for distributed networks (DNs) based on a hybrid model‐data‐driven approach. In the first stage, based on the topology and line parameters of the DN, as well as forecasts of loads and renewable energy outputs, a mixed‐integer second‐order cone programming (MISOCP) algorithm is used to control the on‐load tap changer (OLTC) positions on an hourly day‐ahead basis. In the second stage, leveraging deep learning technology, the real‐time reactive power output of photovoltaics (PV) and wind power units is controlled at a 5‐min time scale throughout the day. Specifically, using traditional solvers, the global optimal reactive power output for PV and wind power units is determined first, corresponding to various load and renewable energy output scenarios. Then, neural networks are trained to map node power to the optimal reactive power outputs of renewable energy units, capturing the complex physical relationships. For the second stage, a transformer network framework with a self‐attention mechanism and multi‐head attention for deep learning training is applied to uncover the intrinsic and physical spatial relationships among high‐dimensional features. The proposed method is tested on a modified IEEE 33‐bus system with multiple distributed renewable energy sources. The case study results demonstrate that the proposed hybrid model‐data‐driven algorithm effectively coordinates day‐ahead and real‐time controls of various devices, achieving real‐time model‐free optimization throughout the day. Compared to traditional deep neural networks (DNNs) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs), the transformer network provides superior reactive power optimization results.