Work

Performance and Security Evaluation of Virtual Islands as a Service for Active Distribution Networks

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article presents and discusses the role of the Virtual Islanding (VI) control strategy in decentralizing flexibility services for distribution networks (DNs). VI services are provided by Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) through a suitable coordination of available local flexible resources. The impact of the proposed VI service is assessed by investigating its ability in mitigating security violations during DN operations. The VI service’s efficacy is tested considering the model of a realistically sized DN and developing a scenario of a high-RES penetration scenario, as foreseen by the Italian Energy Plan (PNIEC). The robustness of the approach was challenged applying a randomized association of flexible resources to the RECs. The aim is to prove that VI can substantially support DN operations, regardless the distribution of flexible resources among feeders and energy communities. To make a comparison with an ideal centralized control made by the Distribution System Operator, a Distribution Optimal Power Flow (OPF) formulation is also developed. The simulations are performed in a Python (v. 3.12.7)/OpenDSS (v. 9.6.1.1) open-source programming environment.

Source: Energies

DOI: 10.3390/en18225929

Authors: Andrea Bonfiglio, Sergio Bruno, Francesco Lorusso, Maria Martino, Manuela Minetti, Angelo Velini

Institutions: University of Genoa, Polytechnic University of Bari

Language: English

Topic: Optimal Power Flow Distribution

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137