Model to simulate medium-voltage active networks with an aggregated view of the low-voltage ends

The integration of renewable energy sources into distribution networks requires a significant change in the traditional planning and operational approach. In medium-voltage (MV) networks, in order to guarantee reliable and secure electricity supply, fostering the connection of new generation, some smart techniques, are based on the integration of operation practices in the set of possible planning alternatives, are being studied. In low-voltage (LV) networks, where distributed generation (DG), mainly photovoltaic producers, are connected in proximity to existing consumers, similar smart control techniques are being considered, either on the producer side (for instance reactive power control) or on the load side (active demand management). One of the main problems associated to the massive connection of DG is represented by the voltage quality. This study aims to describe and apply a model to simulate MV networks, while studying the maximum voltage variations in the underlying LV networks.