Volt-Var and Volt-Watt Control Curves Optimization for Distribution Networks
Volt-var, Volt-watt, OpenDSS, Distributed Generation, photovoltaic systems, voltage deviations
The introduction of distributed micro and mini-generation systems in the electrical system has grown a lot in recent years. Despite the advantages of this growth, new challenges to assure the indicators of efficiency and quality of electric energy have stimulated the researchers. This happens because the massive insertion of distributed generation - when it is not well conducted - can cause voltage deviations, in addition to problems in the protection of the electrical system. Because of this, several studies have been conducted aiming to understand these impacts and the possible solutions to reduce them. In this context, photovoltaic generators are important as they present the greatest growth in installations of this kind. One of the objectives of research has been the proper control of “intelligent inverters”. Through some functions of these instruments, such as volt-var and volt-watt control, it is possible to mitigate voltage deviations that arise due to the elevated introduction of photovoltaic systems in the grid. Thus, this work aims to optimize the volt-var and volt-watt control curves of the inverters in order to minimize technical losses and voltage deviations. For that, the project foresees the simulation of mass introduction of photovoltaic systems through the software OpenDSS in a real grid located in the Brazilian Northeast, for analysis and optimization of curves through Genetic Algorithm. The results show that the optimized parameterization of the curves can be an effective method to reduce or eliminate voltage deviations while minimizing the negative effects of the control method used.