Planning of Reliable Active Distribution Systems

The planning process of distribution power networks in presence of high quantities of distributed renewable energy sources and responsive loads requires new tools for the reliability assessment of the future configuration and active operation of the system. The paper is focused on providing qualitative and quantitative information about the impact of the network communication and control system on the reliability of the whole active distribution network. Reliability models of power system and ICT infrastructure elements, renewable generation, and responsive loads are incorporated within a Pseudo Sequential Monte-Carlo (PSMC) simulation tool that permits calculating single load/generation point indices and system reliability metrics. The influence on the renewable power production and on the availability of the ICT wireless communication system, due to variable weather conditions, is also considered by the PSMC simulation tool.