Peak-load management of distribution network using conservation voltage reduction and dynamic thermal rating

Abstract

The peak-load management of a distribution network (DN) has gained attention by increasing the electric power consumption on the demand side. By developing smart-grid infrastructures, effective utilization of the DN’s components and proper management of the DN would create a valuable solution for DN operators. Hence, in this paper, a peak-load management framework is proposed in which the real-time rating of the components and voltage-dependent features of the electric loads help the DN operator handle the peak times successfully. In addition to the individual advantages of efficient operation of the DN, more practical results are obtained by combining the conservation voltage reduction (CVR) and dynamic thermal rating (DTR) of the DN’s lines and transformers. Based on the obtained results, compared to the individual implementation of CVR, the cost-saving level is increased significantly during the peak events using the simultaneous utilization of DTR and CVR. Furthermore, a discussion is presented about the current problems of the feeders supplying the voltage-dependent constant-power loads during CVR utilization, which is resolved by the dynamic rating of the DN’s components.