• Energy Research

The expected increase in renewable energy sources (RESs) and electric vehicles (EVs) connected to distribution systems will result in many technical constraints. A meshed network is a promising solution; however, some remarkable challenges must be overcome. Among these, this paper mainly focuses on the line overload and short circuit current of a networked distribution system (NDS) in Korea, an advanced form of meshed network. An NDS refers to a system in which there exists permanent linkages between four feeders and N × N communication-based protection. We propose a method, which employs the tap changing control algorithm of the series reactor to control line overload and short circuit current. MATLAB/Simulink was used to evaluate the proposed method. Three different types of distribution system were employed. First, the utilization rate and feeder imbalance were analyzed in steady-state condition. Subsequently, the short circuit current was analyzed in short circuit condition. The results revealed that the proposed method can effectively prevent line overload in up to 82.7% of cases, enhance the utilization rate by up to 79.9%, and relieve the short circuit current; that is, it can contribute to system stability and the economic operation of an NDS.

The meshed network may become a standard for future distribution systems owing to its various benefits regarding voltage profile, reliability, losses, and the distributed generation (DG). Therefore, in Korea, there is a plan to introduce an advanced form of meshed network called a networked distribution system (NDS). This refers to a system with permanent linkages between four distribution lines (DLs) and N×N communication-based protection. To properly introduce NDS to an actual grid, this study proposes a strategy for optimal grid planning and system evaluation. Four different topologies and four practical indicators are explained. First, load imbalance is used to find the optimal grid that maximizes the load capacity. Second, line overload, fault current, and temporary overvoltage (TOV) were used to evaluate the necessity of load transfer, availability of circuit breakers, relay settings, and system stability. PSCAD/EMTDC were employed for the simulation. This study establishes the construction and evaluation guidelines of NDS for distribution system operators (DSOs).