Coordinated Controller to Mitigate Voltage Violation in Smart Distribution Network

Abstract

This thesis addresses the increasing challenges posedby highphotovoltaic(PV)

penetration in distribution networks, specifically focusing on voltage stability

issues caused by extreme seasonal generation variations. Current voltage con-

trol approaches fail to effectively manage these fluctuations- tests on the IEEE

37-bus system showed summer solar production is over 5 times higher than in

winter. This huge difference creates completely different operating conditions

as seasons change, requiring a new approach to voltage control.

The research aims to develop an adaptive control framework that can maintain

voltage stability across variable generation conditions while reducing system

lossesandextendingequipmentlifespan.ACoordinatedVoltageControllerwas

proposed and evaluated that dynamically adjusts responses based on violation

magnituderatherthanpredeterminedthresholds,coordinatingsmartinverters,

battery systems, and mechanical regulators across different timescales.

Results demonstrate significant improvements over traditional methods, in-

cluding a 59.1% reduction in voltage violations, 19.24% reduction in system

losses, and 40% reduction in mechanical switching operations. Notably, unex-

pectedbatteryutilizationpatternswereidentifiedandanon-linearrelationship

between PV penetration and voltage violations with distinct seasonal charac-

teristics was established.

This work advances distribution system theory by demonstrating that adapting

control sensitivity to violation severity significantly enhances voltage stability

across variable generation conditions. The findings provide practical guide-

lines for distribution network operators seeking to accommodate higher PV

penetration while maintaining power quality and reliability standards.

Keywords: Voltage Control, Photovoltaic Integration, Battery Energy Storage

System, Distribution Networks, Adaptive Control, Seasonal Variability, Smart

Inverters, Power Quality