Exploiting distributed energy storage to increase network hosting capacity with a Multi-Agent control system

Due to the increasing presence of renewable energy sources connected to the distribution network, new issues concerning the electrical system's balancing and safety are spreading. Using network solution, these issues can be solved only by reinforcing grid assets or preventing the connection of new power plants. On the contrary, Energy Storage Systems (ESS) are one of the no network solutions identified to solve the technical issues raised in distribution network, to increase the hosting capacity, without using costly solutions. Consequently, several countries (e.g. Italy, Germany, Spain, Japan) defined technical rules regarding connection, prescription and network support functions for ESS in distribution networks. In the paper, an intelligent and decentralized Multi-Agent System (MAS) for the direct control of ESS connected with photovoltaic power plants (PV) in the LV distribution networks has been carried out. The effect of the aggregation of small storage systems able to provide grid services will be tested in a typical Italian LV distribution network, underlining the utility of the proposed design of MAS control.