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Abstract

A small-scale energy zone (SSEZ) is a conceptual future low-voltage distribution network (LVDN) configuration, containing controllable small-scale embedded generators (SSEGs), energy storage units, and consumer demands. The SSEZ concept, coupled with an appropriate active control approach, aims to increase the commercial value and environmental impact of SSEGs. Such an approach must overcome the SSEZ's LVDN constraints and meet its operational goals. The current paper presents preliminary research to: (a) identify the SSEZ control requirements, (b) select an appropriate control approach, and (c) conduct an initial approach evaluation. A distributed control approach has been selected and realized through the use of a multi-agent system (MAS). This distributed control approach offers advantages with respect to scalability and openness, resilience and reliability, and communication efficiency. This control approach is applied to a case study SSEZ in order to evaluate its ability to overcome the distribution network constraints and to meet its operational goals. The research described in this paper brings together power systems and MAS knowledge through collaboration between the Energy and Mechanics Research Groups in the School of Engineering at Durham University.

Keywords

distributed generation dispersed generation distributed control small-scale embedded generation small-scale energy zones multi-agent systems

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Distributed control approach for small-scale energy zones

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