Optimal Utilization of Renewable Energies in Low Voltage (LV) Power Distribution Systems

Our future energy grids will be predominantly influenced by the ongoing transition to renewable energies as well as the electrification of the heat and mobility sector. Moving away from fossil-powered electricity generation implies that an increasing amount of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) have to be integrated into low-voltage distribution grids. Such DERs include heat pumps (HPs), photovoltaic power plants, battery storage as well as electric vehicles (EVs). However, pairing volatile energy generation caused by dynamic wind and irradiance with high-demand scenarios (EVs and HPs) imposes substantial risks for grid stability.

The OUREL project aims to investigate, develop and verify a distributed operation management method for low-voltage grids with a high penetration of DERs. The main objective of the envisioned Cyber-Physical-System (CPS) is to utilize renewable energies as much as possible, without endangering grid stability
For this, DERs participate in a grid-wide optimization process, executed periodically and asynchronously at each node.

The Cyber-Physical-System requires the deployment of an extensive communication network to allow DERs to exchange local information. As communication network characteristics effect the control system's performance significantly, a thorough analysis is necessary to ensure stable and safe grid operation.

The Institute of Communication Networks' (ComNets) contribution to the OUREL project focuses on establishing said communication network in an efficient, effective and timely manner. The exchange of information between nodes has to happen as often and as fast as possible to minimize tracking errors in a node's view of the grid. We analyze how the control algorithm performs under varying network conditions and error states (e.g., node failure, interference). Furthermore, we investigate the effects of different communication technologies on the delay, update interval, and Age of Information distribution for exchanging local information. The project includes theoretical analysis as well as the development of a Hardware-in-the-loop emulation setup.
 

OUREL is conducted in cooperation with the Institute of Electrical Power and Energy Technology of Prof. Becker at the TUHH.

• Leonard Fisser