A Review of Operation Methods and Simulation Requirements for Future Smart Distribution Grids

The increasing penetration of active elements at lower voltage levels introduces new challenges for efficient and reliable operation of distribution grids. Reverse power flow and the addition of interconnections between feeders not only make relay coordination harder, it requires development and testing of new control algorithms to ensure voltages are kept withing safe operating limits. Simulation tools that provide a good compromise between detail and computational complexity are necessary. This paper summarizes the requirements and characteristics for operating and simulating future smart distribution grids. Special focus is put on existing simulation tools that allow testing of complex algorithms involving a combination of energy sources and loads, i.e., distributed generation (DG), flexible load (FL) and energy storage. Finally, the importance of co-simulation of power and communications systems is discussed.