Distributed Generation and intentional islanding: effects on reliability in active networks

The improvement of distribution network reliability has become a mandatory requirement imposed by regulators to distributors. In this context, the widespread integration of distributed generation into the distribution system suggests resorting to the intentional islanding practice for reducing the long interruptions suffered by MV and LV customers. In the paper a procedure based on a sequential Monte Carlo simulation is presented to assess the effects of intentional islanding and to compare this debated practice with the more traditional use of emergency connections. The application of the procedure to an example has allowed pointing out some interesting features of both practices. The most important result is that, even if the use of redundant paths controlled by automation devices still remains the best practice, with the intentional islanding similar results may be achieved without building new lines.