A framework to determine maximum capacity of interconnecting DGs in distribution networks

Abstract

Interconnecting Distributed Generation (DG) in the distribution network is considered as an important area of power system planning. When the DG placed inappropriately, the DG can have negative impact on some important and critical characteristics of system performance such as increased power losses, degraded voltage profile, and mis-coordination between protection devices. This paper introduces a framework to determine the maximum capacity limits of interconnecting DG units in radial distribution networks in order to keep protection scheme unchanged, while the voltage profile remains within acceptable range and on the same time having the minimum power losses in the network; applying this framework in the developing countries could save money and time during the integration of DGs to the network. Detailed simulations using MATLAB software are illustrated in order to investigate the results.