Hierarchical DER Control for Locational Pricing in Distribution Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining locational pricing in distribution networks with distributed energy resources (DERs) is challenging due to complexity and temporal variability, leading to computationally intensive control solutions that are impractical and often result in undesirable network operations such as phase imbalance and line congestion.
Innovation Solution
A distributed, hierarchical control architecture using layered locational energy service control variables is implemented to control the provision of energy services by DERs, with energy service control variables denominated in terms of price or cost, facilitating economic activity and simplifying control operations across multiple layers of the distribution network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If computationally intensive control solutions are used to determine locational pricing in distribution networks with DERs, then measurement precision of pricing control is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The control architecture is segmented into multiple hierarchical layers (transmission layer, distribution layer, and DER layer), with each layer handling specific control functions. This segmentation distributes the computational burden and simplifies each individual layer's complexity while maintaining overall pricing precision through coordinated multi-layer control.
Solution Approach 2:
Aggregators are introduced as intermediary entities that control multiple DERs and interface between the distribution network and individual DERs. These intermediaries simplify the control architecture by consolidating control signals and reducing the computational complexity at both the network level and individual DER level, while maintaining precise locational pricing control through the hierarchical structure.
2Measurement precision
If computationally intensive control solutions are implemented for locational pricing, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The control operations are segmented across hierarchical layers, with each layer performing simplified operations appropriate to its level. This segmentation makes control operations easier to implement and manage at each layer while achieving precise locational pricing through the coordinated interaction of all layers.
Solution Approach 2:
DERs and aggregators are empowered to autonomously respond to pricing signals and adjust their operation based on locational marginal pricing information. This self-service capability simplifies overall system operation by reducing the need for centralized micromanagement while maintaining precise control through market-based mechanisms.
3Productivity
If locational pricing control is implemented in distribution networks with DERs, then productivity of energy service control is improved, but object-affected harmful factors worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The hierarchical control architecture implements continuous feedback loops at each layer, where pricing signals and operational data flow between layers to dynamically adjust DER operation. This feedback mechanism enables real-time detection and correction of harmful effects like phase imbalance and line congestion, maintaining high control productivity while preventing network violations.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system proactively applies preliminary anti-action by using locational marginal pricing signals to guide DER operation before harmful conditions develop. By anticipating and preventing phase imbalance and line congestion through predictive control at the hierarchical layers, the system maintains productivity while avoiding network violations.
Data Source
AI summary
Architectures, apparatuses, methods, systems, and techniques for controlling electrical power distribution network are disclosed. Embodiment distributed, hierarchical controls including layered locational energy service control variables may be utilized to determine and control the provision of energy services, including real power, reactive power (VAR), and capacity reserves, by DERs in a distribution network. In a first ex-ante iteration a simulation may be performed to calculate a set of subnetwork-specific control variables based on subnetwork locational energy service prices and a plurality of sets of DER-specific control variables based on DER locational energy service prices. A second ex-ante iteration calculates a set of actual subnetwork-specific control variables based on subnetwork locational energy service prices and a plurality of sets of actual DER specific control variables based on DER locational energy service prices. Provision of energy services by DERs in a distribution network occurs in response to the determined control variables.