The Impact of Distributed Energy Storage on Distribution and Transmission Networks’ Power Quality

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of distributed Energy Storage Systems (ESSs) on the power quality of distribution and transmission networks. More specifically, this project aims to assess the impact of distributed ESS integration on power quality improvement in certain network topologies compared to typical centralized ESS architecture. Furthermore, an assessment is made to see if the network topology in which an ESS position supports its ability to restore node voltage magnitude within acceptable ranges. The power quality of a benchmark interconnected distribution and transmission network was determined using NEPLAN software. Following that, twelve variants of the benchmark were modeled, each with a different ESS integration architecture and (or) topology. Their power quality performance was compared to that of a benchmark network in addition to several cross analyses to determine the relative impact on power quality within the context of their respective ESS integration methodologies. The findings of this study buttress the understanding that the distributed ESS integration architecture within the distribution network topology, where the majority of consumer loads are connected, provides the strongest case for voltage magnitude power quality compensation, as required by the UK Electrical System Grid Code’s 5% rated node voltage compliance processes regulation.