A set of indices to assess the real performance of daylight-linked control systems

Abstract The installation of Building Automation Control Systems (BACs) in general is an effective action to achieve relevant energy savings. Commercial BACs, installed in residential or small offices, often include functions of lighting control, acting as Daylight-Linked Control Systems (DLCSs). Nevertheless, because system performance is strictly dependent on different parameters, BAC’s hardware and software configuration and as well as an inaccurate commissioning do not always allow a perfect execution of the desired tasks; therefore, the system could not work as expected. Moreover, it is well known that energy saving potential is specifically related to the variability of the light envi…

Componenti di un impianto fotovoltaico

Robust Multi-Objective Optimal dispatch of Distributed Energy Resources in Micro-Grids

Modern distribution systems are implemented through micro grids: small power networks where generation is close to consumption and ICT supports the coordinated management of the different energy resources. In such systems, the central control unit manages energy dispatch from the different sources according to different criteria (technical, economical and environmental) and takes care of tertiary regulation. Such optimization for the tertiary regulation is performed with a time interval that typically is of 24 hours. This is due to the fact that it is necessary to take into account the charge and discharge cycles of storage systems. On the other hand, such long time leads to large errors in…

Technological and legislative status point of stationary energy storages in the EU

Abstract European renewable generation has been supported through several policy instruments in the last decades, and this has caused a significant growth of the renewable energy sector, spurred by the ambitious climate and energy policy targets. Despite this impetuous growth, the electricity infrastructure is not yet ready to accept increasing shares of variable renewable energy sources (RES) generation, and this is causing grid balance challenges, due to the inherently variable nature of the PV and wind energy. In order to overcome this issue, allowing higher shares of renewable generation in the energy sector, energy storage (ES) systems are becoming increasingly competitive in the globa…

Implementazione di funzioni aggiuntive per la rappresentazione e la gestione ottimizzata di risorse energetiche distribuite in un distretto energetico. Simulazione di scenari in ambiente integrato

Il presente Rapporto descrive le attività svolte dal personale del DEIM dell’Università degli Studi Palermo nell’ambito della prima fase delle attività di ricerca dal titolo: “Implementazione di funzioni aggiuntive per la rappresentazione e la gestione ottimizzata di risorse energetiche distribuite in un distretto energetico. Simulazione di scenari in ambiente integrato”, oggetto dell’Accordo di Collaborazione tra ENEA e DEIM sottoscritto in data 25 marzo 2013. Scopo del presente accordo di collaborazione è la definizione di funzioni aggiuntive per i vari componenti del distretto energetico già descritti e modellati in un apposito software nella scorsa annualità. Le simulazioni sono state s…

Currents Distribution During a Fault in an MV Network: Methods and Measurements

When a single line to ground fault happens on the MV side of a HV/MV system, only a small portion of the fault current is injected into the ground by the ground-grid of the faulty substation. In fact the fault current is distributed between grounding electrodes and MV cables sheaths. In systems with isolated neutral or with resonant earthing this may be sufficient to provide safety from electric shock. Experimental measurements were performed on a real MV distribution network: a real single line to ground fault was made and fault currents were measured in the faulty substation and in four neighboring substations. In this paper the problem of fault current distribution is introduced, the tes…

Technical-economical evaluation for distributed storage applications. An Italian case study for a medium-scale public facility

Time-of-use energy cost management involves the use of storage by customers to reduce their electricity bills. This can be accomplished by charging the storage during off-peak time periods, when electricity energy prices are low, and discharging it during times when on-peak energy prices are applied. This article addresses the question whether it is economically viable to install medium-scale distributed storage devices in the power system designed to lower the electricity cost for a customer-side application, assuming flexible electricity tariffs. The technical/economical evaluation is carried out referring to Lithium ion (Li-ion), Sodium Sulphur (NaS) and Vanadium Redox Battery (VRB) tech…

A Montecarlo Approach for a Study on the Impact of the domestic installation of Small PV and Thermal Solar Systems on the grid

Green Data Centres providing ancillary services to power grid

This work investigates the possibility for a Data Centre to provide services to the Grid. In particular, the paper simulates a sudden shift of frequency because of a power decrease and estimates how a real-life Data Centre can contribute the secondary frequency regulation.

Legal Liability of Professional Engineers: The Case of a Fire at a Shopping Center

In this paper, the authors discuss the legal liabilities of the professional engineer as both the engineer of record of a project and the construction site manager. In particular, this paper analyzes the case of a fire at an end-user MV/LV substation of a shopping center in Italy, occurred a few years after maintenance works on the electrical installation. The professional engineer who had designed and overseen the construction of the substation was accused of criminal negligence. The authors through the examination of applicable technical standards, as well as of safety regulations, demonstrate that the professional engineer had acted diligently and that there was no ground for the neglige…

Contract for the support of household appliances control and monitoring application interworking specification

Support Policies for Photovoltaic Systems in Europe

FENOMENI DI INTERFERENZA TRA ELETTRODI DI IMPIANTI DI TERRA INTERCONNESSI

Financial measures for supporting wind power systems in Europe: A comparison between green tags and feed’in tariffs

Distributed Generation demonstrates to be able to significantly influence the electric power system, bringing considerable benefits to the quality of service and improving the energetic efficiency of the distribution network. In particular, in the last few years, Distributed Generation from renewable energy sources is considerably increased thanks to the many support policies promoted worldwide with the aim of facing the environmental issue and the problem of the permanent rise of prices of the fossil energy. In this contest, after a brief review on the financing strategies carried out in Europe in the last decade for promoting the recourse to renewable energy, the paper presents a comparis…

Grid-Following and Grid-Forming MODELS in ATP-EMTP for Power Systems Simulation

The paper presents the models of grid-following and grid-forming converters in the software ATP-EMTP for power systems simulation. The models are developed using the MODELS language, they are described in details discussing all issues and aspects related to the implementation, and they are also shared as open source models. The models are validated with a simulation-based approach, comparing the results with the models developed in MATLAB/Simulink and in NEPLAN, considering both the phasor RMS and EMT time domains, and thus performing a comprehensive cross-platform and cross-domain validation. In line with the spirit of the ATP software and community, the models of grid-following and grid-f…

Studio di fattibilità e progettazione preliminare di dimostratori di reti elettriche di distribuzione per la transizione verso reti attive. Report 2 – Simulazioni e valutazioni di progetto per gli scenari selezionati

Solar-assisted heat pumps systems for domestic hot water production in small energy communities

Abstract The paper investigates the energy performances of several configurations of solar-assisted heat pumps equipped with photovoltaic (PV) and photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) panels as well as solar thermal collectors for domestic hot water production. The systems are sized to serve small aggregates of users assumed as micro energy communities in low housing density context in the South of Italy. Electricity storages are also considered to smooth the interaction with the electric grid. Several indices are defined and calculated to guide toward a correct sizing, to check users’ satisfaction and to assess primary energy savings. The results show how the energy consumption from the analysed sys…

Transient DC-Arc Voltage Model in the Hybrid Switch of the DTT Fast Discharge Unit

The focus of this work is the transient modelling of the DC-arc voltage on a Hybrid Switch (a mechanical switch in parallel with a static switch) of a key protection component called Fast Discharge Unit (FDU) in the Divertor Tokamak Test (DTT). The DTT facility is an experimental tokamak in advanced design and realization phase, which will be built in the ENEA Research Centre in Frascati (Italy). The FDU allows the safe discharge of the Toroidal Field (TF) superconducting magnets when a quench is detected or a failure occurs in the power supply or in the cryogenic system. In this work, the arc conductance of the mechanical By-Pass Switch (BPS) of the Hybrid Switch is modelled using the well…

The Quest for Global Safety

The authors present a systematic study on the factors that have influence on the establishment of the safety conditions ensuring the rise of Global Earthing Systems. Starting from the definition of Global Earthing System given by CENELEC Document HD 637 SI and from the results of the studies done on the last years on the interconnected earthing systems inside MV networks, the paper proposes some directions of deepening on the topic of Global Safety. Some of the themes whom the paper deals with are: the correct definition of proximity, interconnection and quasi-equipotentiality of the earth electrodes belonging to a Global Earthing System; the influence of the presence of HV/MV stations on h…

A bidirectional converter for the integration of LiFePO4 batteries with RES-based generators. Part II: Laboratory and field tests

This paper presents a device for controlling and connecting combined Renewable Energy Sources (RES)-based generators and electric storage systems to the supply utility grid. The device is a bidirectional converter that can be controlled in order to facilitate the interface between the low voltage grid and small generators combined with Li-ion batteries, contemporary addressing the requirements of the reference technical standards for users connection and providing different ancillary services. The paper describes the laboratory and field test activities carried out by the DEIM of the University of Palermo and ENEA during 2013.

On the de-energization of over-head low-voltage lines under high-impedance fault conditions

Downed distribution conductors in overhead distribution systems, may not be a concern for equipment, but greatly challenge the safety of persons, as well as the integrity of properties. Upstream overcurrent protective devices may not be able to detect the magnitudes of fault currents resulting from these high-impedance faults. Even though protective devices capable to detect such faults have been available on the market, not all the utilities have equipped their stations with these products, likely due to the costs. In this paper, the authors formalize the problem, and propose a possible cost-effective solution for the low-voltage over-head lines with neutral wire. Such solution includes a …

DE.DU.ENER.T. project: A prototype of a sustainable energy microsystem

The paper presents a prototype of a microsystem for the integration and the optimal management of renewable energy sources in order to attain a reduction of the total energy consumption of a not residential building. The system composed by the building and the prototype is an energy sustainable microsystem and is located in Italy in the city of Valderice. The microsystem has been conceived in the ENPI (European Neighborhood and Partnership Instrument) cross-border cooperation Italy - Tunisia 2007-2013 DE.DU.ENER.T. (Le DEveloppement DUrable dans la production ENERgetique dans le Territoire) research project framework. In the paper the purposes of the DE.DU.ENER.T. project are presented and …

New dispatching strategy for the integration of active-demand and distributed storage in the electricity market

The proliferation of Distributed Generation (DG) in power systems calls for a redesign of electricity network management, which should be able to accommodate large amounts of intermittent generation. This issue requires a discussion about the current dispatching regulation, giving distributed storage systems and qualified electricity consumption the opportunity to provide ancillary services to the distribution grid. In this work, a new dispatching strategy for the integration of active-demand and distributed storage in the Italian electricity market is presented. The strategy is focused on a distribution Smart Grid (SG), where customers can indirectly participate to the Day-Ahead (DA) and t…

Aspetti tecnico-gestionali della progettazione

Forensic Analysis of Fire in a Substation of a Commercial Center

In this article, the authors discuss the legal liabilities of the professional engineer as both the engineer of record of a project and the construction site manager. In particular, this article analyzes the case of a fire at the end-user medium voltage–low-voltage (MV–LV) substation of a shopping center in Italy, which occurred a few years after the maintenance works on the electrical installation. The professional engineer who had designed and overseen the construction of the substation was accused of professional negligence. The authors through the examination of applicable technical standards, as well as of safety regulations, demonstrate that the professional engineer had acted diligen…

Designing an Energy Management System for smart houses

Most advantages that the smart grid will bring derive from its capability of improving reliability performance and customers' responsiveness and encouraging greater efficiency decisions by the customers. In this optic, the paper presents an innovative Energy Management System for smart houses, allowing the optimization of the electricity cost and electrical energy consumption and, at the same time, preserving the end-user comfort.

An integrated platform for electrical modeling of microgrids

Aggregates of loads and generators working coordinated, called microgrids, are new entities appearing at distribution level. In this paper, an integrated platform for energy modeling of microgrids is proposed. The platform allows the evaluation of heat and electrical energy balance terms and of the steady state features of the distribution system supplying the grid. The interface is friendly and allows the positioning of different items, such as co-generators, photovoltaic and wind units, Electric Vehicles parking lots and buildings. The platform is built in Matlab while the interface in Java. Each component of the model can be placed using a CAD facility and each ‘node’ is characterized by…

Optimizing droop coefficients for minimum cost operation of islanded micro-grids

This paper shows how minimum cost energy management can be carried out for islanded micro-grids considering an expanded state that also includes the system's frequency. Each of the configurations outputted by the energy management system at each hour are indeed technically sound and coherent from the point of view of generation-consumption balancing by exploiting a frequency dependent load flow algorithm. A Glow-worm Swarm Optimization (GSO) algorithm carried out in a 24 hour time frame provides optimized results. A test has been carried out for a residential PV-Storage-Microturbine islanded micro-grid to show the feasibility as well as the efficiency of the proposed approach and results ar…

Challenges and directions for Blockchain technology applied to Demand Response and Vehicle-to-Grid scenarios

Abstract Nowadays, Blockchain is considered a consolidated technology supporting many different applications that integrate well with Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things, and supports the creation of Decentralized Autonomous Organizations. Within this wider framework, the energy blockchain applications are now deserving more and more attention, since blockchain architectures, on one hand, provide transparency and solve the information asymmetry problem, on the other, provide disintermediation. In this way, the dream of an energy market closer to end-users becomes a reality, although, still, the regulatory framework is not clear, especially for what concerns the tokenization o…

Transition of a Distribution System towards an Active Network. Part I: Preliminary Design and Scenario Perspectives

In an European perspective, the focus of Smart Grids initiatives (SET Plan - Strategic Energy Technology Plan) is strictly linked with the main commitment to achieve the goals of the Climate and Energy Package 20-20-20, at the light of the three main pillars of the European energy policy: competitiveness, sustainability and security of supply. Smart grid technologies will enable load levelling of the electrical grid, allowing a power company to run cleaner power sources - such as hydroelectric, wind, or solar - while reducing the need to use carbon-emitting gas, coal, or oil plants to meet peak demand. In this framework the proposed paper refers about the technical economical feasibility st…

Comparing the Impact of Electric Vehicles on Urban and Insular Networks

Transport sector is moving towards clean and green transportation with the growing market of electric vehicles globally. Electric vehicles are independent fossil fuels consumption, but the massive adoption of electric vehicles soon can lead to a significant burden on the power distribution networks. In this paper, a study on the potential impact of electric vehicles on the power distribution networks of two different regions with totally different realities of population density, an average number of cars per inhabitant, and travel habits has been carried out. The first region is the island of Favignana having an insular power distribution network, while the other region, the city of Palerm…

Urban Energy Hubs Economic Optimization and Environmental Comparison in Italy and Vietnam

This paper aims to perform the minimization of the yearly energy supply cost from the main electricity and natural gas grids related to an energy district, considering the installation of different equipments. The case study refers to energy consumption of a medium density urban district and involves the exploitation of different energy sources and devices (photovoltaic systems, electrical energy storage, heat pumps and cogenerators). The analysis of the district energy supply is accomplished through an energy hub model. After a cost analysis related to the considered energy systems, a MILP algorithm was used for the optimization of a cost function and the simulation of various scenarios. M…

USE OF NATURAL PRODUCTS FOR THE CONTROL OF POWDERY MILDEW OF ROSE PLANTS

PowDery mildew caused by Podosphaera pannosa (Wallr. Fr.) De Bary on roses in greenhouse cultivation is usually controlled by chemical products. Aiming to lower the use of chemical treatments, in vitro and in planta assays were carried out using some natural products. The inhibitory effect of essential oils extracted from oregano inflorescences (Origanum heracleoticum L.) and cloves (Syzygium aromaticum L. Merril et L.M. Perry), was evaluated by in vitro tests. Essential oil at 0.5, and 0.125 ml/L concentration was added to conidia suspension (8 x 105 conidia/ml). After 2, 4, 8, 12, 24 and 48 hours, 400 conidia for each treatment and control were evaluated and the germination percentage cal…

Design optimization for the quench protection of DTT's superconducting toroidal field magnets

Abstract The paper is focused on the optimal design of Fast Discharge Unit (FDU) for the quench protection of the Toroidal Field (TF) magnets of the Divertor Tokamak Test facility (DTT), an experimental facility under construction in ENEA Frascati Research Centre (Rome, Italy). The FDU is a safety key component that protects the superconducting magnets when a quench is detected through the fast extraction of the energy stored in the magnets by adding a discharge dump resistor (DR) in the TF magnets circuit. A comparison between a fixed DR and a switched variable DR has been implemented by changing resistor parameters and by using multiple current control of the power electronics components …

A Test Bench for a Blockchain-based Management of Smart Prosumers' Flexibility

To date, the European regulatory framework requires the development of new energy policies at the national level that can reduce overall consumption and support the implementation of customer-focused control and management systems. Therefore, it is necessary to study the feasibility of the various strategies available, especially for the involvement of residential users in services that can contribute to the management of the electricity grid. The advent of blockchain technology has enabled the development of new business models for the electricity market, opening this world to end users who previously did not have the opportunity to participate in energy trading and allowing the implementa…

A modified IEEE 802.11 protocol for reliable data transmission in automated power distribution systems

A high level of power quality in distribution networks is obtained by means of a diagnostic software, that establishes on-line the status of the network, by elaborating the measured data. An efficient telecommunication system is necessary, from whose reliability depends the security of the timely interventions on the network in case of fault. In the paper, after a brief examination of the diagnostic method, the telecommunication system is examined. The WiFi system has been considered most suitable, for its economy, for the diagnostic service, besides it is not suitably reliable for how it is managed by the IEEE 802.11 protocol for this application. In this work a new protocol derived by the…

A methodology for evaluating the flexibility potential of domestic air-conditioning systems

The paper presents a methodology for quantifying the electrical flexibility potential of air-conditioning systems (ACS) installed in residential buildings according to the building envelope characteristics and the ACS performance. In order to provide a thorough analysis of the issue, the ACS baseline consumption referred to the indoor temperature of 24°C has been computed for three typical residential buildings built in the South of Italy over different periods. The baseline consumption was used as a reference to estimate the effect of the set point temperature change on the ACS power profile. The results showed that increasing the set-point temperature of ACS by 2°C and 4°C leads to a redu…

Analisys on the feasibility to modulate lighting systems load: the case study of Palermo

The feasibility to shift and/or modulating the loads that characterize buildings can be useful to improve the performance of smart grids. As known, it is not possible to shift in the time the operating time of the lighting system, but it is possible to modulate the needed electric power. In this paper, the first set of data and a preliminary analysis conducted in the Solarlab of the University of Palermo are presented. The innovative lighting system was designed, sized and installed with the aim of evaluating the consumption of an island user that can be controlled by the DSO or an aggregator. In order to do this, the lighting system load was modulated by applying different strategies: vary…

The BAC factor method: Application to a real Italian not-residential building

The paper focuses the evaluation of the impact of Building Automation Control (BAC) systems on not-residential buildings. In particular, this work shows how the control, monitoring and automation actions considered by the European Standard EN 15232 can influence the electric and thermal energy consumptions of the University of Palermo DEIM (Department of Energy, Information Engineering and Mathematical Models) building. After evaluating the building energy consumptions, by using the CEI Guide 205-18, the BAC systems are chosen and sized and an economic evaluation of their installation cost is also carried out.

Energy Management of a Hybrid Photovoltaic-Wind System with Battery Storage: A Case Report

This work presents a case report related to the management and the monitoring of a hybrid photovoltaic-wind system with battery energy storage, installed at the administrative offices building of the municipality of Valderice (Italy) within the framework of the Italy-Tunisia ENPI cooperation project Le Développement Durable Dans la Production Energétique Dans le Territoire (DE.DU.ENER.T.). The paper describes the hybrid system and briefly reports the monitoring data for a whole year, comparing the real production with the expected one and evaluating some performance indexes of the system. The performance indexes are very simple and have been defined only with the purpose of sh…

The Energy Market Impact of Climate Change on Electricity Generation in Europe

In this paper, the policy trend in Europe towards the emission reduction target in the energy sector, as planned from the Paris Agreement, is analyzed. Although renewable energy sources are improving their share, the large use of coal as primary fuel and the uncertainty about nuclear production makes the transition hard. It's well known that future emission patterns from energy generation influence the climate change trend, but as shown in the following, there is also a reverse interrelation, due to the different environmental conditions caused by climate change affecting all generation technologies. Furthermore, energy prices, which derive from this changed framework likewise will influenc…

Ancillary Services in the Energy Blockchain for Microgrids

The energy blockchain is a distributed Internet protocol for energy transactions between nodes of a power system. Recent applications of the energy blockchain in microgrids only consider the energy transactions between peers without considering the technical issues that can arise, especially when the system is islanded. One contribution of the paper is, thus, to depict a comprehensive framework of the technical and economic management of microgrids in the blockchain era, considering, for the first time, the provision of ancillary services and, in particular, of the voltage regulation service. When more PV nodes are operating in the grid, large reactive power flows may appear in the branches…

Methodologies for the Exploitation of Existing Energy Corridors. GIS Analysis and DTR Applications

The exploitation of power lines currently in operation has now become a common practice among electric system operators. The construction of new power lines requires taking economic, political and social problems into consideration. This paper considers two methodologies adopted by the Italian Transmission System Operator (TSO), Terna S.p.A.: Dynamic Thermal Rating (DTR) and Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging-Geographic Information System (L-GIS). DTR systems dynamically calculate the real transport capacity of a power line. The L-GIS system allows, after the geo-referencing of the power line, the management of any interference between the line and the nearby obstacles, permitting the opti…

Analysis of the efficacy of a WiFi architecture for the management of medium voltage distribution systems

The paper illustrates the interventions for improving security of a WiFi communication system applied in the automatic management of a Medium Voltage network. The management system fails if the data measured at the secondary substations can’t flow regularly. In this paper the security of the transmission as function of the action range of the radio channel, on the data sending time of the IEEE 802.11 protocol, and of the out of use of a WiFi node. Then, a modified IEEE 802.11 protocol is described, for making secure the transmission in presence of a high number of WiFI nodes. Finally, a probabilistic analysis in presented for analyzing the problem from an economical point of view.

A methodology for assessing the impact of salinity gradient power generation in urban contexts

Abstract The paper proposes a methodology to assess the potential impact of salinity gradient power technology in urban contexts. The idea to employ such energy source in urban contexts derives from the observation that, among the energy districts outputs, low-salinity treated wastewater can be used to produce electricity if a suitable source of high salinity feed (seawater of a salt-works) is also available. The methodology uses the HOMER software for assessing the district’s electric energy production, consumption and exchange with the main grid. Then, starting from the total gross surface and the number of inhabitants of the district, some possible realistic scenarios characterized by di…

An analysis of feed’in tariffs for solar PV in six representative countries of the European Union

Abstract In this paper, after a brief review on the main support policies for Photovoltaic (PV) systems in Europe, the specific situations of six representative countries (France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain and the U.K.) are examined, with the purpose of highlighting the main differences in the implementation of the feed’in tariff (FiT) support policies adopted for PV systems. In particular, a comparison based on the calculation of economic indexes, as the Discounted Cash Flows (DCF), the Pay-Back-Period (PBP), the Net Present Value (NPV) and the Internal Rate of Return (IRR), for different sized PV systems shows that a specific FiT can sometimes be inconvenient for the producer and that…

Optimal Set Points Regulation of Distributed Generation Units in Micro-grids under Islanded Operation

The present work studies the problem of optimizing the power production levels of dispersed generation units in islanded microgrids. The problem is intrinsically multi-objective with non linear objectives and constraints, thus the solution approach is based on evolutionary optimization and uses the Non dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II. The objectives are calculated based on the solution of the load flow problem. The latter problem is more complicated when in the considered system a physical node with a sufficiently large production capability is not available, because all the generation node of the systems have similar and limited generation capability. In this paper, the issue has be…

A Blockchain-based Platform for Positive Energy Districts

The reduction of climate change effects (mitigation) is now mainly driven by the limitation of CO2 emissions which is currently becoming increasingly necessary and urgent to achieve. In this context, within the past Horizon 2020 program, the Urban Europe Joint Programming Initiative aimed to promote the development and deployment of at least 100 Positive Energy Districts by 2025. The latter are flexible, energy-efficient urban areas or groups of buildings that produce zero net CO2 emissions and actively manage annual renewable energy surplus production at the local or regional level. As they are connected to the electric power system, Positive Energy Districts have the ability to offer flex…

A review of health assessment techniques for distribution transformers in smart distribution grids

Due to the large number of distribution transformers in the distribution grid, the status of distribution transformers plays an important role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the these grids. To evaluate the distribution transformer health, many assessment techniques have been studied and developed. These tools will support the transformer operators in predicting the status of the distribution transformer and responding effectively. This paper will review the literature in the area, analyze the latest techniques as well as highlight the advantages and disadvantages of current methodologies.

Simple Circuit Models for Studying Global Earthing Systems

The paper proposes three simple circuit models for the simulation of the behaviour of a global earthing system during different fault events. The models allow one the evaluation of the maximum earth potential rise at every possible fault location and for every possible fault event. The three considered fault events are: single-line-to-earth fault inside a MV/LV substation, double-earth-fault in a MV line, single-line-to-earth fault inside a HV/MV station. After having illustrated the hypotheses at the basis of the study, the circuit models for the three fault events are presented and a numerical example shows how to use them in order to check the "global safety" of the interconnected earthi…

DOUBLE EARTH FAULT EFFECTS IN PRESENCE OF INTERCONNECTED EARTH ELECTRODES

The paper presents a study on the effects of double earth faults in Medium Voltage (MV) networks, in presence of electrical interconnection of the earthing systems of the secondary substations. In urban areas, indeed, the earth electrodes of the secondary substations are interconnected and, in many cases, they are also connected to the earth electrodes of the primary stations, in order to realize quasi-equipotential surfaces, intrinsically safe against electric shocks, named Global Earthing Systems (GES). The concept of GES has been introduced in the technical literature ten years ago in the Document HD 637 S1 by CENELEC, with the aim of providing a solution to the problems of designing and…

Methods to Predict Energy Use for Lighting Systems: An Overview and an Application on a Real Case Study

The study of Demand Response strategies application is widely related to the evaluation of the energy consumption. It is fundamental to optimize the design and management of the plants in the smart buildings. During the design steps, it is necessary to predict the above-mentioned energy consumption. This paper reviews some methods that can be applied to predict energy consumption related to lighting systems. In particular, three categories of methods have been analysed: methods proposed by technical standards, methods based on mathematical indices for daylight assessment, and methods based on simulation models. These methods have been described and applied by calculating the energy consumpt…

A Cost-Effective Solution for Clearing High-Impedance Ground Faults in Overhead Low-Voltage Lines

Downed distribution conductors in overhead distribution systems may not be a concern for equipment but greatly challenge the safety of persons, as well as the integrity of properties. Standard overcurrent protective devices may not be able to detect the magnitudes of currents resulting from high-impedance ground faults. Sophisticated relays able to detect high-impedance ground faults have been available to electric utilities. However, their implementation is rather uncommon, especially in developing countries, most likely due to their costs. In this paper, the authors formalize the problem, and propose a possible cost-effective solution for low-voltage overhead lines with neutral wire. This…

Frequency constrained optimal Power Flow based on Glow-worm Swarm Optimization in Islanded Microgrids

This work presents an application of a swarm optimization method to solve the optimal power flow problem taking into account the constraints of frequency and line ampacity in three-phase islanded Microgrids. Each generation unit is equipped with a Power Electronics Interface. In the considered formulation, the droop control parameters are considered as variables to be adjusted by a higher control level, while the frequency is kept in rated bounds. Another typical constraint for OPF formulation, the max ampacity of each line, is also considered. Two case studies with different dimensions and electrical features have been considered and the obtained results show the efficiency of the proposed…

A comparison of two innovative customer power devices for Smart Micro-Grids

The paper presents a comparison of two prototypes of innovative Customer Power Devices designed for applications in Smart Micro-Grids. The devices are both equipped with Energy Storage Systems, consisting in Lithium batteries and have been assembled, independently, by the DIAEE of the University of Rome 'La Sapienza' and the DEIM of the University of Palermo in collaboration with the Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA). In the paper, the characteristics and the operating modes of the devices are examined and some consideration on their application in Low Voltage Smart Micro-Grids are provided. © 2015 IEEE.

Experimental validation of the BAC factor method for lighting systems

In the last few years, many buildings have been equipped with Building Automation and Control (BAC) systems. BAC systems can be used to achieve a significant reduction of the electrical consumption and to have all the well acknowledged benefits from the daylight (e.g. occupant comfort, health, well-being and productivity). For this reason, Standard EN 15232 "Energy performance of buildings — Impact of Building Automation, Controls and Building Management" puts into evidence the importance of the presence of BAC and Technical Building Management (TBM) systems, suggests a classification of these systems, explains their main functionalities and presents a simplified method to estimate their im…

On multi-objective optimal reconfiguration of MV networks in presence of different grounding

The present work faces the traditional multi-objective optimal reconfiguration problem of a distribution grid including the safety issue in the objective functions. Actually, in many medium voltage networks still transformers with ungrounded neutral and with resonant grounded neutral coexist in the same area. This may be sometimes cause of problems during a single-line-to-ground fault if the ground electrodes of one or more cabins, initially designed for satisfying the safety conditions in a resonant grounded neutral network, after the reconfiguration are in a grounded neutral one or vice versa. In the paper a safety objective function is defined and the Non dominated Sorting Genetic Algori…

Managing electrical energy storage systems and shiftable loads with an innovative approach in energy districts

In this work, a power dispatch problem for a system composed of an aggregate of loads and an electrical energy storage system is considered. The approach to solve the optimal dispatch is innovative and shows good performances in limited calculation times. According to the more recent indications coming from the European distributors, the architecture for energy dispatch at distribution level will be hierarchical. The 'Aggregator' is the interface between groups of loads and the energy distributor and sends the individual consumers the desired load profiles, following which the user may gets a discount on the energy bill. On the other hand, the energy tariff may follow a given daily profile …

An electrochemical route towards the fabrication of nanostructured semiconductor solar cells

This work presents our preliminary results regarding an electrochemical process which allows the growth of nanostructured materials by means of nanopore templates. Also we analyze possible applications of this process to fabricate nanostructured semiconductors, such as CIGS, suitable for photovoltaic devices, and we consider the implications from the perspective of characterization techniques and device modelling when using such a technology.

A New Device for the Control and the Connection to the Grid of Combined RES-based Generators and Electric Storage Systems

In this paper a new device for the control and the connection to the supply utility grid of combined RES-based generators and electric storage systems is presented. The device is a bidirectional converter that can be controlled so as to facilitate the interface between the low voltage grid and photovoltaic or wind generators combined with batteries, contemporary addressing the requirements of the reference technical standards for users connection and providing different ancillary services. In the paper the functioning of the device and its circuit diagram are described, the single parts are shown and the potentiality of its control system are commented. © 2013 IEEE.

A study of the behaviour of earth electrodes connected together in resonant earthed neutral systems

Inside urban areas the earth electrodes of the MV/lv substations are often electrically connected together so as to form a single extended earthing system. The advantages of the realization of an extended earthing system are the reduction of the current that each substation earth electrode injects in the soil during the fault and a better uniformity of the voltages to earth inside the urban area. In previous works, models for the study of extended earthing systems have been proposed. These models were valid for the case of single-line-to earth fault in isolated neutral MV networks. In this paper, the extended earthing system is analyzed in the case of a resonant earthed neutral MV network. …

Smart renewable generation for an islanded system. Technical and economic issues of future scenarios

The subject addressed in this paper is the analytical study of the transition of an energy generation system for a real MV/LV distribution system from one that is “fuel-based” to a distributed and smart “renewables-based” system. The paper outlines both the technical and the economic issues related to such a transition from one type of system to the other. The study is carried out for a real islanded network located in the Island of Pantelleria (Mediterranean Sea). The results obtained are presented and discussed, putting into evidence the technical, environmental and economic benefits of using smart technologies and renewable energy sources.

A Comparison of Special Bonding Techniques for Transmission and Distribution Cables under Normal and Fault Conditions

In this article, a review of the existing special bonding techniques for medium voltage and high-voltage cables is presented. Special bonding techniques have the purpose of reducing sheath currents, thereby limiting copper losses and the reduction of the ampacity of cables. The literature review shows various bonding techniques and how these have evolved over the years thanks to new technologies. Simulations of each technique are performed in MATLAB/Simulink, to compare their strengths and drawbacks both under normal conditions and in the presence of a single-line-to-ground fault.

Active load sharing technique for on-line efficiency optimization in DC microgrids

Recently, DC power distribution is gaining more and more importance over its AC counterpart achieving increased efficiency, greater flexibility, reduced volumes and capital cost. In this paper, a 24-120-325V two-level DC distribution system for home appliances, each including three parallel DC-DC converters, is modeled. An active load sharing technique is proposed for the on-line optimization of the global efficiency of the DC distribution network. The algorithm aims at the instantaneous efficiency optimization of the whole DC network, based on the on-line load current sampling. A Look Up Table, is created to store the real efficiencies of the converters taking into account components toler…

Current and Voltage Behaviour During a Fault in a HV/MV System: Methods and Measurements

When a single line to ground fault happens on the MV side of a HV/MV system, only a small portion of the fault current is injected into the ground by the ground-grid of the faulty substation. In fact the fault current is distributed between grounding electrodes and MV cables sheaths. In systems with isolated neutral or with resonant earthing this may be sufficient to provide safety from electric shock. Experimental measurements were performed on a real MV distribution network: a real single line to ground fault was made and fault currents were measured in the faulty substation and in four neighbouring substations. In this paper the problem of fault current distribution is introduced, the te…

Generalized power-angle control for grid-forming converters: A structural analysis

Several control schemes have been recently proposed and studied as grid-forming controls for power converters. In all these schemes, the power-angle control loop is the part which defines the fundamental capabilities of the grid-forming control: that control loop governs in fact the inherent synchronization mechanism of the power converter, the power sharing with the other generation sources in the system and the oscillatory characteristics of the converter-based resource. This article introduces a general formulation for the power-angle control characterizing the grid-forming concept for power converters. The generalized power-angle control is based on a polynomial fraction formulation, an…

Financial Measures for Supporting Wind Power Systems in Europe: A Comparison between Green Tags and Feed’in Tariffs

Distributed Generation demonstrates to be able to significantly influence the electric power system, bringing considerable benefits to the quality of service and improving the energetic efficiency of the distribution network. In particular, in the last few years, Distributed Generation from renewable energy sources is considerably increased thanks to the many support policies promoted worldwide with the aim of facing the environmental issue and the problem of the permanent rise of prices of the fossil energy. In this contest, after a brief review on the financing strategies carried out in Europe in the last decade for promoting the recourse to renewable energy, the paper presents a comparis…

Simplified Energy Model and Multi-Objective Energy Consumption Optimization of a Residential House

Featured Application: The potential application of the proposed model is a computationally inexpensive semi- or fully automated system for the optimization of operation in residential buildings in terms of energy consumption. Some analyses state that buildings contribute to overall energy consumption by 20–40%, which, in the context of the recent geopolitical energy crisis, makes them a critical issue to study. Finding solutions for better energy management in buildings can have a significant impact on the energy sector, thus reducing EU energy dependencies and contributing to the fulfillment of the REPowerEU goals. This paper focuses on proposing a simplified model of a residential house c…

Experimental Set up of Advanced Lighting Systems for Load Shifting Strategies

Shiftable and modulable loads are an essential part of smart grids in the effort for improving the efficiency of the power system and providing new ancillary services. Most of the researches considered shiftable loads and the impact on the power grid. Smart lighting systems are able to modulate their consumption while preserving the visual duty, therefore they can take part to this action. In this context, this paper presents an advanced experimental setup implemented in the SolarLab of the University of Palermo, with the aim of studying the impact on the end-user's energy consumption and on the power grid of smart lighting systems. In this light, different control strategies will be consid…

A Simplified Analytical Approach for Optimal Planning of Distributed Generation in Electrical Distribution Networks

DG-integrated distribution system planning is an imperative issue since the installing of distributed generations (DGs) has many effects on the network operation characteristics, which might cause significant impacts on the system performance. One of the most important characteristics that mostly varies because of the installation of DG units is the power losses. The parameters affecting the value of the power losses are number, location, capacity, and power factor of the DG units. In this paper, a new analytical approach is proposed for optimally installing DGs to minimize power loss in distribution networks. Different parameters of DG are considered and evaluated in order to achieve a hig…

Efficientamento energetico di utenze domestiche nelle isole minori italiane

L’articolo tratta l’efficientamento energetico nel settore residenziale delle piccole isole non connesse alla rete di trasmissione elettrica nazionale. L’analisi ha riguardato un’utenza tipo dell’Isola di Lampedusa, individuata sulla base dei dati statistici ISTAT, di cui sono stati acquisiti i dati di consumo da bolletta e monitorati i consumi elettrici al fine di selezionare gli interventi di retrofit più adeguati. Fra questi vi sono: la sostituzione degli scalda-acqua elettrici esistenti e il ricorso a tecnologie di Building Automation Control system (BACs) per la gestione dell’impianto di illuminazione e di altri carichi elettrici flessibili. La valutazione dei risparmi conseguibili è s…

Dynamic Lighting Strategies with Load Modulation Purposes to Reduce Peak Electrical Demand

This paper proposes a study about the feasibility to modulate the indoor artificial lighting, taking into account both achievable energy savings and comfort conditions, in order to reduce lighting electric loads. In particular, it focuses on the possibility, on one hand, to decrease the luminous flux and, on the other hand, to change the Correlated Colour Temperature (CCT), in order to decrease the absorbed power. Moreover, the impact of daylight-linked control systems was considered. Finally, the possibility to combine the different technical solutions was analysed. The paper proposes the definition of daily scheduling referred to lighting energy management, in order to modulate the maximu…

Multi-objective strategies for management and design of distributed electric storage systems in a Mediterranean island

The paper proposes an analytical study about the design and operation of distributed Electrical Storage Systems(ESS) in an active distribution network supplying a Mediterranean island, according to different criteria. The approach is based on the application of a multi-objective optimization algorithm (NSGA-II) that outputs a set of optimized schedules of the ESS in different configurations when operated according to different criteria (minimum energy losses in the grid, total generation cost, greenhouse gas emissions, limiting the fluctuations of the generation from fossil fuel plants). Moreover the variability of the voltage profile has been investigated also by a comparison with a refere…

Effects of double ground faults in Wind Farms collector cables

Medium Voltage collector cables of Wind Farms have metal shields connected to the grounding systems of the towers and of the connection station. Thanks to this bonding, when a ground fault occurs, the fault current splits itself among all the grounding systems of the wind farm, this causing a reduction of the ground potential rise at the fault location. Nevertheless, in presence of double ground faults, very high ground potential rises occur at the two fault locations and safety against electric shock is not always assured. In order to study this issue, the paper presents a model for simulating in a simple way the effects of double ground faults occurring in Medium Voltage collectors of ext…

Technical and Economical Analysis of Different Measures for Efficient Operation of a Distribution Network in a Mediterranean Island

The paper performs a technical and economical comparison of different measures to improve the efficiency of a MV system for power distribution in the Mediterranean island of Lampedusa. The study takes into consideration three possible measures: 1) rated voltage increase from 10 kV to 20 kV; 2) reactive power compensation with fixed capacitor banks; 3) reactive power compensation with switchable capacitor banks. While the study of the first two considered measures is carried out with classical design methods, the optimal reactive design with switchable capacitor banks is carried out by means of a specific software set up at the DIEET and implementing the multiobjective optimization genetic a…

Smart rules for smart cities- Managing efficient cities in euromediterrenean countries

Modern cities require new and different codes, taking into account environmental and energy issues, pillars of the contemporary urban development. The existing urban communities are highly energy consuming systems, strongly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Contemporary cities cannot be thought of and defined as static systems, as they were in the past, with a few urban functions. ‘The Church, the square and the court, the marketplace and the government palace were in the past the places where the urban functions were taking place’ (E. Salzano ). Today, the reference frame has changed even due to the demographic increase more and more concentrated in the cities that are now large co…

A Simulation Analysis for Assessing the Reliability of AC/DC Hybrid Microgrids - Part I: Underground Station and Car Parking

This paper reports the results of a simulation study with the aim of evaluating the capability of two portions of a hybrid AC/DC MV/LV network of maintaining their operation in off-grid mode during the loss of the main AC grid due to a failure. In particular, the study aims to verify, in the case of islanded operation of the two microgrids, the continuity of the electricity service by exploiting the local generation plants, Energy Storage Systems (ESSs), and other flexible resources managed by suitable algorithms in different energy scenarios. The analysis was carried out considering two microgrids: an underground station and a car parking with Electric Vehicles (EVs). For assessing the per…

Energy Management System in Grid-Connected Small Scale AC/DC Microgrids Including Renewable Sources and Flexible Loads

The growth of small scale microgrids with diverse distributed generations has drawn attention to their effective energy management. In this paper, for various energy scenarios, an energy management system is adopted to minimize the energy purchased by a hybrid AC/DC microgrid from the upstream grid due to high peak-hour energy prices and maximise generation from renewable sources, while adjusting the most optimal charge/discharge control strategies for flexible loads such as electric vehicles and storage systems, and the supply of non-controllable loads. In addition, peak shaving is simultaneously implemented in this proposed model without considering minimum power deviation as an objective…

An Algorithm for Optimal Sizing of BESS in Smart Islands Energy Communities: the Case of Pantelleria

Energy Communities (EC) are a promising solution to reduce both the carbon footprint and the impact of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) on the distribution grid. Based on a simple energy sharing principle, EC can be decisive in the next future energy transition of some problematic territories, like small islands not supplied by the main power grid. By integrating Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), it is possible to improve the EC performance. However, due to the still high BESSs unit prices, the goal of this work is to find the optimal size of BESSs, under various conditions, which combines the need to maximize shared energy and the possible revenue of EC actors. To set this multi-objecti…

Real-Time Minimization Power Losses by Driven Primary Regulation in Islanded Microgrids

Islanded microgrids are small networks that work independently from the main grid. The frequency and voltage in islanded microgrids are affected directly by the output power of distributed generators and power demand variations. In this work, a real-time driven primary regulation, which relies on optimized P-f droop coefficients, is proposed. In all operating conditions, it minimizes the power losses for islanded microgrids. The proposed configuration will allow the optimization modules to interact with each other and adjust parameters producing a suitable power sharing among generators. The methodology is tested based on a hardware-in-the-loop experimental set-up where distributed generato…

An algorithm for simulating end-user behaviour in a real time pricing market

The energy market has changed radically over the last decade, mainly due to an increased penetration of renewable energies. Now the end users have directly access to the energy market and can actively take part to the electricity market. Electricity customers can indeed modify their behavior through Demand Response, namely by means of pricing strategies that support a change in the end-users habits. This can be accomplished through a 'loads aggregator', a third party that collects the requests and signals for Active Demand-based services coming from the markets and the different actors of energy market. This paper describes a simulation framework to generate the simulated optimal behavior o…

Inter-area oscillations in the 500-kV Vietnamese power system

The paper presents the study of the 500-kV Vietnamese power system. The oscillatory response of the system is analyzed both with a modal analysis and a time domain analysis. The 500-kV system of Vietnam is modeled in details, including all the power plants with the corresponding regulators. The model is developed in collaboration with the Institute of Energy Science IES-VAST of Vietnam and it is validated with the data provided by the National Load Dispatch Centre (NLDC) of Vietnam. The simulation results reveal a clear identification of potential inter-area oscillations between North and South of the Country. A worsening of the observed phenomenon should be considered as possible, especial…

Aggregation and remuneration in Demand-Response with a blockchain-based framework

This paper describes the possibility to use the blockchain technology for load and generation aggregation in a new distributed Demand Response (DR) service and customers remuneration system. The blockchain technology and the use of smart contracts for DR allow the creation of a distributed system in which customers can communicate directly, in a transparent, secure and traceable way, with the grid operator to provide their flexibility. In this paper, the DR problem formulation takes into account several aspects, which are periodically executed. First, the blockchain records customers’ energy consumption or production, then, the smart contract starts calculating the baseline and the potentia…

La manutenzione degli impianti elettrici: il piano di manutenzione

Modelli e strategie per la definizione di strumenti software per la simulazione integrata di distretti energetici in ambiente dedicato

Il presente Rapporto, strutturato in due parti (Parte Prima: “Modelli e strategie per la simulazione di distretti energetici” e Parte Seconda: Definizione e sviluppo di strumenti software per la simulazione integrata di distretti energetici in ambiente dedicato), descrive le attività svolte dal personale del DIEETCAM dell’Università degli Studi Palermo nell’ambito della prima fase delle attività di ricerca dal titolo: “MODELLI E STRATEGIE PER LA DEFINIZIONE DI STRUMENTI SOFTWARE PER LA SIMULAZIONE INTEGRATA DI DISTRETTI ENERGETICI IN AMBIENTE DEDICATO”, oggetto dell’Accordo di Collaborazione tra ENEA e DIEETCAM sottoscritto in data 27 gennaio 2012. Scopo del presente accordo di collaborazio…

Transition of a distribution system towards an active network. Part II: Economical analysis of selected scenario

This paper outlines the economical issues related to the transition of the energy generation for a real MV/LV distribution system from a ‘fuel based’ one to a distributed and smart ‘renewables based’ one. It is the prosecution of a companion paper, which addressed the technical issues connected to such transition. The study has been carried out by University of Palermo and ENEA (Italy), on a portion of real MV/LV distribution system of the research center ENEA of Casaccia (Rome, Italy). The analysis is carried out for a specific scenario chosen among those proposed in the companion paper.

Considering safety issues in minimum losses reconfiguration for MV distribution networks

This paper offers a new perspective over the traditional problem of the multiobjective optimal reconfiguration of electrical distribution systems in regular working state. The issue is indeed here formulated including also safety issues. Indeed, dimensioning the earth electrodes of their own secondary substations, distribution companies take into account the probable future configurations of the network due to transformations of overhead lines into cable lines or realization of new lines. On the contrary, they do not consider that, during normal working conditions. the structure of the network can be modified for long periods as a consequence of reconfiguration manoeuvres, with differences …

Economic analysis on dynamic photovoltaic systems in new Italian "feed in tariffs" context

Dynamic photovoltaic generators, based on the application of solar-trackers, are able to give an increment to the electric energy production from solar source. Their realization and maintenance costs are certainly higher than those of fixed ones. In this paper the Authors propose a method to estimate the increment of electrical energy generation that must be guaranteed by a dynamic photovoltaic generator, so as its realization could be more favorable with respect to that of a fixed generator one with the same rated power. This method, developed by means of classical economic indexes like the Pay-Back-Period and the Net Present Value, takes in to account the economic incentives for the PV sy…

Performance Improvement of Grid-Integrated Doubly Fed Induction Generator under Asymmetrical and Symmetrical Faults

The doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind energy conversion system (WECS) suffers from voltage and frequency fluctuations due to the stochastic nature of wind speed as well as nonlinear loads. Moreover, the high penetration of wind energy into the power grid is a challenge for its smooth operation. Hence, symmetrical faults are most intense, inflicting the stator winding to low voltage, disturbing the low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) functionality of a DFIG. The vector control strategy with proportional–integral (PI) controllers was used to control rotor-side converter (RSC) and grid-side converter (GSC) parameters. During a symmetrical fault, however, a series grid-side converter…

Impact of integrating photovoltaic based DG on distribution network harmonics

The process of integrating various distributed generation (DG) technologies in power system networks is increasing rapidly in the recent years. One major concern about the integration of DGs is their impact on network harmonics. The aim of this paper is to investigate the effects caused by the integration of photovoltaic DG in distribution networks on system harmonics. The penetration level, number of DG units, and their location are used as parameters in order to verify the effects of DG on system harmonics. Moreover, a study of single and double tuned filters is conducted as harmonics mitigation techniques. Detailed simulations using Matlab/Simulink are inserted in order to explain and ve…

A Model for Assessing the Magnitude and Distribution of Sheath Currents in Medium and High-Voltage Cable Lines

In this article, the authors discuss a simulation model to study the effect of cross-bonding of metallic sheaths, and/or nonmagnetic armors, of single-core medium- and high-voltage cables in the same circuit. In single-core cables, the resistive losses due to the induced circulating currents in cable sheaths or armors cause an increase of the cable temperature, which therefore reduces its ampacity. This is a serious issue affecting the distribution and transmission lines. In addition, the risk of electric shock due to induced voltages may be present if a person is in contact with the armor/sheath at its unbounded end. For these reasons, special bonding techniques of metal sheaths are employ…

Technical Rules for Connecting PV Systems to the Distribution Grid: A Critical Comparison of the Italian and Vietnamese Frameworks

In the last two decades, starting from the Kyoto protocol, decarbonization has promoted worldwide the rise of distributed generation from renewable energy sources. Currently, Vietnam is still showing a strong dependence on fossil fuels but with a great interest in investing in renewable, especially in photovoltaic (PV) systems. In this paper, the current Vietnamese technical and administrative framework for the connection of PV systems to the power grid is presented and critically compared to the Italian one, in order to define the bases for future cooperation in distributed generation and renewable sectors.

Impact of RES penetration on the frequency dynamics of the 500 kV vietnamese power system

The increase of renewable energy sources (RES) typically operating as converter-interfaced generation (CIG) is progressively causing a significant change of power systems operation paradigm. The reduction of the overall available kinetic energy and the consequent impact on the dynamic response of the system is a relevant issue currently under investigation in academic and industrial scopes. The work analyzes the impact of different CIG penetration in the three areas of the 500 kV Vietnamese power system, North, Center and South. The system is modified substituting conventional synchronous generation with converter-interfaced generation. The models of power converters and corresponding contr…

A mathematical approach for studying interconnected earthing systems inside MV networks

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to define a new methodology for studying interconnected earthing system inside unearthed medium voltage (MV) networks.Design/methodology/approachThe developed methodology is based on the division of the MV network into simpler sub‐systems and its resolution using a multiport approach.FindingsThe methodology has been applied to various situations giving precious information on the behaviour of the interconnected earthing systems. The comparison between the results of the simulations and measurements done on a really existing network has shown that the methodology is able to provide accurate results.Research limitations/implicationsSome factors can influenc…

Grid-Forming Converters in Weak Grids – The Case of a Mediterranean Island

The existing power network of a Mediterranean island is used as test bed for the study of grid-forming converter dynamics in weak grid conditions. The control scheme adopted for the converter falls in the category of the so called virtual synchronous machines (VSM). Particular attention is committed to the interaction between the converter controls and the synchronous machines dynamics. Time delays typically associated to measurements and filters are considered in the study, and included in the system model with a specific mathematical approach. Time-domain simulations show the occurrence of oscillatory instability in the system, with VSM and synchronous machines swinging against each other…

On the distribution of lightning current among interconnected grounding systems in medium voltage grids

This paper presents the results of a first investigation on the effects of lightning stroke on medium voltage installations' grounding systems, interconnected with the metal shields of the Medium Voltage (MV) distribution grid cables or with bare buried copper ropes. The study enables us to evaluate the distribution of the lightning current among interconnected ground electrodes in order to estimate if the interconnection, usually created to reduce ground potential rise during a single-line-to-ground fault, can give place to dangerous situations far from the installation hit by the lightning stroke. Four different case studies of direct lightning stroke are presented and discussed: (1) two …

Conceptual Design and Modeling of the Toroidal Field Coils Circuit of DTT

Italian Divertor Tokamak Test (DTT) facility is part of the general European programme on the fusion research. Its specific role is to cover the gap on the power exhaust for the future DEMOstration power plant (DEMO). This tokamak will be built and installed in Italy at Frascati ENEA laboratories. The paper describes the Toroidal Field (TF) coils circuit powered by a TF power supply that feeds in series 18 toroidal superconducting magnets and the development of three software models in order to validate the adopted technical solutions in term of maximum voltage and maximum current stress on each power device/component, due to both the operating and fault conditions, and across TF coils.

A Method to Evaluate Voltages to Earth During an Earth Fault in an HV Network in a System of Interconnected Earth Electrodes of MV/LV Substations

An easy and swift method to evaluate, in a system of interconnected earth electrodes, earth potentials on earthing systems of medium-voltage/low-voltage (MV/LV) substations, in an event of single-line-to-earth fault inside a high-voltage/medium- voltage (HV/MV) station, is presented. The advantage of the method is the simplicity of the mathematical model for solving complex systems of any size with a sufficient accuracy for practical purposes. This paper shows the results of simulations, performed on networks with different extensions and characteristics, organized in easy-to-read graphs and tables. A comparison of these results with the values obtained according to the procedure explained …

DEMAND Project: An algorithm for the assessment of the prosumers’ flexibility

Demand side aggregation represents an important opportunity for ancillary services provision due to the potential that the coordinated management of distributed resources has on affecting power systems' operation. In this framework, the Aggregator has a main role and takes on different relationships with the other actors of the power system, usually becoming a mediator between the prosumers and the distribution system operator. The DEMAND project introduces a new point of view in demand side aggregation by proposing a new framework where the Aggregator is no more needed and prosumers can share and combine their flexibility in a new aggregation platform called Virtual Aggregation Environment…

Urban Energy Hubs and Microgrids: Smart Energy Planning for Cities

In this chapter, we try to connect the urban design features with energy consumption and consequent pollution parameters. After a review of a selected set of approaches to Urban Energy Systems study with a special focus on electrical power systems, urban energy systems are proposed as networks of multi-source hybrid energy hubs, where different energy flows are collected at the same bus and can be stored, delivered or transformed as needed. Resources at the hub and infrastructures interact with each other; therefore, both definition and boundaries of such energy systems at urban level are difficult to be clearly outlined. Similarly, the possibility to generate new operational models based o…

Dynamic Control of Static Converters for the Transition from Grid-on to Grid-off Operation of AC/DC Microgrids

In this paper, specific control logics defined for generators, controllable loads and electric energy storage systems are illustrated in order to improve the reliability of AC/DC hybrid microgrids in their grid-off operation following failure events such as short-circuits, line breaks, sudden disconnections of generating units or loads, etc. After defining specific control schemes, these were modelled in a digital environment and finally tested with dynamic simulations. Finally, the paper highlights the role of virtual synchronous machine control for the self-healing capacity of islanded hybrid microgrids.

A study on the use of bare buried conductors in an extended interconnection of earthing systems inside a MV network

In the field of electrical safety an important topic is the transmission of voltages, during an earth fault, inside an extended interconnection of local earthing systems. The paper presents a study, with reference to the MV networks, about those systems where the interconnection between the earth electrodes of the electrical installations is carried out using bare buried conductors. Starting from the description of the circuital model of a bare buried conductor interconnecting together the earth electrodes of two MV/lv substations, the mathematical model of the whole interconnected earthing system is found. Finally, the results of some simulations, giving the distribution of the fault curre…

DEMAND Project: A Peak Load Shaving Strategy for End-User Consumers

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are becoming increasingly widespread in modern power systems, thanks to the important benefits they can provide to the electricity grid. Indeed, BESS can be used in time shifting applications, storing energy during off-peak periods and discharging during peak times (when the cost of electricity is high). When BESS are used for peak shaving purposes, they also contribute to relieve peak demand charges, thus ensuring a saving for the consumers. This paper describes a peak load shaving strategy defined within the DEMAND project. The strategy is able to guarantee the flattest daily power diagram and the maximum benefit for the electricity consumers, reducin…

Simulation of photovoltaic installation connected to the grid with storage system

Abstract In the present paper, a new approach for the management of energy resources in a research laboratory is proposed and evaluated. A simulation study for the photovoltaic (PV) installation was conducted under the Tunisian-Italian cooperation project DE.DU.ENER.T, using renewable energy and economic criteria. The aim of the study is to improve the energy efficiency in order to minimize the electricity cost consumed in the laboratory. A Hybrid Renewable Energy System consisting of a photovoltaic field of 12KWc was installed to reduce the exorbitant bills, due to intensive energy equipment such as drying ovens and workstations, using sustainable, green and clean sources. In addition, a s…

Economic impact of Ice Thermal Energy Storage Systems in residential buildings in presence of double-tariffs contracts for electricity

Thermal energy storage is one of the most important methods of demand-side load management, thanks to the capacity of reducing significantly the peak power demand for air conditioning in buildings. Thermal Energy Storage Systems (TESS) are indeed used for producing and storing cooling capacity during off-peak hours (in particular during night hours) to meet the following day's air conditioning requirements. The current paper presents a study on the effects of the installation of Ice TESS for cooling on the power daily profile of residential buildings, and examines the economic repercussions on the electricity billing. With reference to this second theme, the paper examines, in particular, t…

A Peer-to-Peer Market Algorithm for a Blockchain Platform

In an era of technological revolution in which everything becomes smarter and connected, the blockchain can introduce a new model for energy transactions able to grant more simplicity, security and transparency for end-users. The blockchain technology is characterized by a distributed architecture without a trusted and centralized authority, and, therefore, it appears as the perfect solutions for managing exchanges between peers. In this paper, a market algorithm that can be easily transferred to a smart contract for maximizing the match between produced and consumed energy in a micro-grid is presented. The algorithm supports energy transactions between peers (both producers and consumers) …

Frequency stability in microgrid: control strategies and analysis of BESS aging effects

In order to ensure a thorough analysis, all components placed in a microgrid would have to be considered to guarantee an effective energy management. To this aim, various algorithms are used both to preserve and restore power systems after significant disturbances. However, these models frequently do not evaluate components performance decline with the age and, consequently, they don't consider actual values during microgrid analysis, potentially affecting obtained results. In particular, evaluating energy storage systems aging and their effects has rarely been addressed in prior works. The present article proposes a model to maintain power system/microgrid stability after disturbances usin…

Reducing energy consumptions and CO2 emissions in European countries: a review on legal environment and increasing use of photovoltaic energy for Electric Propulsion Systems

In Europe, the building sector is ranked second in terms of CO2 emissions, just after transport. Particularly, it accounts for 25% of the overall CO2 emissions. Moreover, in order to reduce CO2 emissions, European legislations encourage the use of renewable energies and, among them, particularly the use of PhotoVoltaic (PV) one. This because the connection between the use of PV clean energy and the reduction of CO2 emission is well demonstrated. In this context, the first part of the paper is focused on the regulations related to building energy efficiency while the second part investigates the deployment of PV source all over Europe.

A bottom-up approach for the evaluation of the flexible quota of aggregated loads

The paper presents a bottom-up approach for building the aggregated load profile of numerous passive/active users connected to the low voltage electrical system. The approach is based on the Monte Carlo method and on the knowledge of the single electric and thermal loads, generators and thermal and geometrical characteristics of the building of the single end-user. The method proposed is able to differentiate the quota of flexible and not flexible aggregate load.

Effects of Demand Side Management on the Operation of an Isolated LV Microgrids

The work presents the results of a study regarding the impact of Demand Side Management actions on flexible loads distributed at the domestic end-users' facilities in an isolated low voltage microgrid. Aim of the research study is to evaluate how the implementation of local control actions on the end-user's side can impact on the operation of the isolated microgrid. The Demand Side Management is applied by each domestic user to optimize the operation of its own resources following well-defined operative steps. The study is carried out implementing a suitable model of the microgrid in Neplan environment, while the daily controlled load profiles of the end-users are evaluated using the Montec…

The evolution of the FIT mechanism in Italy for PV systems: a critical analysis

The paper presents an analysis of the Feed'in Tariffs (FIT) mechanism development in Italy from 2005 to 2013 and named “Conto Energia”. In particular the work examines the five editions of the “Conto Energia”, highlighting both advantages and critical issues for the PV market development in Italy; this analysis is particular interesting due to the fact that the cap on FITs in Italy has been reached in June 2013.

Smart city and public lighting

The smart city is increasingly becoming a concept of reference for what concerns the planning and the spatial development of cities. The concept of smart city cannot be easily standardized. It is based on a multi-service and multi-sectorial planning regarding various urban functions (energy, mobility, waste, etc.) and places them under a common denominator: the use of advanced technologies for minimizing resources consumption and simultaneously increase the quality of life of the citizens. This paper aims to give an overview on the concept of smart city and outline what, at present, are the main intervention areas considered at European level. Then the paper focuses on the public lighting t…

Improved primary regulation for minimum energy losses in islanded microgrids

In this paper, an improved primary regulation is proposed for grid forming units supplying islanded microgrids. A minimum losses Optimal Power Flow is run off-line to devise the operating set points composing the primary regulation curve. In this way, after load perturbations, generators can reach an optimized operating point for a given and unique minimum losses energy flows distribution. The idea is to skip the hierarchical control architecture and provide a feasible and optimized operating point. A case study over 24 hours shows the effectiveness of this new approach as well as the improved operation quality of the system.

Comparative analysis of different supporting measures for the production of electrical energy by solar PV and Wind systems: Four representative European cases

Abstract In the 9th of March 2007, the European Council decided a fixing goal of 20% contribution of the renewable energy sources (RES) on the total European electric energy production in 2020. In order to reach such an ambitious goal, all the European countries are adopting different support policies for encouraging the installations of RES-based generation systems. In this paper, after a brief review on the main support policies for RES in Europe, the specific situations of four representative countries (France, Germany, Italy and Spain) are examined, with the purpose of putting into evidence the main differences in the support policies adopted for Photovoltaic (PV) and Wind systems. In p…

Collaudo, verifiche tecnico-funzionali e manutenzione

Effects of COVID19 pandemic on the Italian power system and possible countermeasures

Abstract The paper analyses the dramatic effects of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Italian power system, considering the impacts on load and generation, market issues and ancillary services provision. During the period between March and May 2020, the Italian scenario was considered as exemplary due to the large reduction of loads and thermal generation caused by the hard lockdown across the Country. Italy has experienced the most severe effects of pandemic in terms of increase of death rates and of pressure on the health system as well as severity of the countermeasures. As a domino effect, the total lockdown of one of the most industrialized countries in the world has creat…

A parametric study on unbalanced three phase islanded microgrids with inverter interfaced units

In this paper, the solution of the power flow for unbalanced three phase microgrids systems is proposed. The study aims at the integration of inverter interfaced units using the control law used for primary voltage and frequency regulation, so as to take into account possible small variations of these parameters to account for sudden load changes. The proposed study deals with unbalanced systems which is the typical case of small distribution systems and shows how the power losses term varies as the regulators parameters vary as well, thus showing that these are sensitive parameters that could have an important role in optimal management of such systems.

Energy Management via Connected Household Appliances

The study reported hereafter provides results based on a campaign of simulations conducted by University of Palermo on the basis of its knowledge in the field Energy Value Chain and in the field of Energy Management (EM) for household appliances. Inputs from CECED Convergence WG has been fundamental to base that study on realistic data and cases. Moreover, the so called EM study, offers also a clear picture about the opportunity to have energy management applications and services in house, being those opportunities strictly related to the cost of in- frastructure needed and to the benefits belonging to different actors in the energy value chain. Energy savings have been considered both in t…

The new course of FITs mechanism for PV systems in Italy: novelties, strong points and criticalities

The paper deals with the new course of the Feed-in Tariffs mechanism for photovoltaic systems that will start from January 1, 2011 in Italy with the actuation of the Government Decree DM 06/08/2010. After a short introduction on Feed-in Tariffs and Net-metering in Italy, the paper focuses the attention on an economical comparison between the incentives established by the Government Decree DM 19/02/07, ended on December 31, 2010 and those introduced by the DM 06/08/2010. The economical comparison is based on three indexes: the Pay Back Period, the Net Present Value and the Internal Rate of Return, characterizing the investments done for the realization of the photovoltaic systems. In particu…

Earth resistance measurements in urban contexts: Problems and possible solutions

Both EN 50522 and IEEE Std. 81 propose the Fall of Potential Method (FPM) to carry out the measurement of the resistance to earth of an Earthing System (ES). However, in urban areas, the recommended distances between the ES and auxiliary electrodes are not easy to respect, due to the presence of buildings and tarmac. Moreover, unknown buried metallic parts, as well as the interconnection among the ESs made by the Distributor System Operator, could modify the earth potential profile of the area, affecting the measurement results. In this paper, the issues that could affect the measurement result if FPM is used in an urban context are presented. A parametric analysis, carried out with Comsol …

Energy efficient operation in smart grids: optimal management of shiftable loads and storage systems

In this paper, the authors analyze the impact of the participation of customers to the sustainable implementation of energy rational strategies in microgrids. The management of shiftable loads is compared to the control of real and reactive storage systems in smart grids. An optimization algorithm is used as analysis tool to assess the impact of such control variables in different conditions. The results clearly indicate that if shiftable loads are of suitable size, they have a more promising as tools to both reduce losses and to flatten the peak load through the HV/MV bus. Many tests have been carried out on a real experimental MV system in the area of Rome Italy.

Grid Stability Improvement Using Synthetic Inertia by Battery Energy Storage Systems in Small Islands

In this paper, the synthetic inertia need of the small island of Pantelleria in the Mediterranean Sea is assessed. Firstly, the optimal renewable energy mix able to minimize the Levelized Cost of Energy for the generation system of the island is evaluated, considering the yearly load demand and the characteristics of the local natural resources. The optimal energy mix introduces in the island a quota of power generation with static power converters interfaced to the grid that could jeopardize the security of the system if not suitably controlled. Therefore, the inherent inertial response of the diesel generators of the system is calculated hour by hour for each month of one year, considerin…

Innovative algorithms for the management of combined RES-BESS systems

The issue of the optimal management of the available energy resources also at end-user level is getting more and more attention. The paper deals with the definition of innovative algorithms for managing electrical storage systems in hybrid photovoltaic and wind plants, also taking into account different pricing periods and a grid emergency condition in which the Utility can request an injection of power by the end-user. Application examples for explaining the operation of the algorithms are presented.

Experimental study of the combined RES-based generators and electric storage systems for public buildings

Abstract In the present paper, a new approach to the management of energy resources in the Research and Technology Centre of Energy (CRTEn -Tunisia) is proposed and evaluated by the monitoring of a PV installation realized for the cooperation project DE.DU.ENER.T, using renewable energy and economic criteria. The aim of this project is to improve energy efficiency order to minimize the electricity cost consumed at the CRTEn laboratory. According to the bills of electricity received, we noticed that there is a high consumption of electrical current. So, we targeted to install a photovoltaic field of 12KWc to reduce these bills by using the sustainable, green and clean sources. A theoretical …

Lightning-current distribution in MV grids interconnected earthing systems

The paper presents first investigations results on the effects of lightning stroke on medium voltage (MV) installations' earthing systems, connected together with the metal shields of the MV distribution grid cables. The study enables to evaluate the distribution of the lightning current among interconnected earth electrodes in order to assess if the interconnection, usually done for reducing earth potential rise during an earth fault, can give place to dangerous situations far from the installation hit by the lightning stroke. Two case studies of direct lightning stroke are presented and discussed: two interconnected MV substations of the MV grid; a high voltage/medium voltage (HV/MV) stat…

Electricity Consumption Analysis of Tertiary Buildings: An Empirical Approach for Two University Campuses

An empirical approach for the analysis of energy consumption of existing buildings of the tertiary sector is presented in this study. It allowed the organization and management of large amounts of data according to different timeframes and helped to focus on leading issues about energy uses, and dealt with compatibility with tariff structure. The analysis method, which implied a powerful graphical representation of the results, allowed us to detect critical issues in electricity energy management for public buildings and improve their energy performance. Furthermore, the authors proposed a set of electricity consumption indexes (ECIs) that gave useful insight into the main hotspots. The bas…

An Energy Blockchain, a Use Case on Tendermint

The recent advances in distributed energy systems require new models for exchanging energy among prosumers in microgrids. The blockchain technology promises to solve the digital issues related to distributed systems without a trusted authority and to allow quick and secure energy transactions, which are verified and cryptographically protected. Transactions are approved and subsequently recorded on all the machines participating in the blockchain. This work demonstrates how users, which are nodes of the energy and digital networks, exchange energy supported by a customized blockchain based on Tendermint. We focus on the procedures for generating blocks and defining data structures for stori…

Safety Protocols for Forensic Inspections in the Time of COVID-19: An Approach to Protect Practitioners

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the entire world in ways that were unimaginable in 2019. It has changed how professionals work and interact with one another. To ensure the safety of experts and attorneys, forensic inspection procedures must evolve while still providing a reliable foundation for expert testimony. Traditional field inspections require attendees to be physically present and in generally close proximity. Inspecting artifacts may also require that individual components be serially examined by multiple experts, which increases the risk of transmitting the disease. The authors propose a new approach to forensic inspections aimed at protecting consultants from the biological ris…

The Global Grounding System: Definitions and guidelines

The present paper presents the preliminary results of the ongoing Italian METERGLOB project on the contribution given by the exposed conductive parts to a Global Grounding System. One of the expected results of METERGLOB is to carry out guidelines for the identification of a Global Grounding System. These guidelines must be defined on the basis of the definitions and methods present in the current international standards on grounding and safety. In the paper some definitions and elements to be taken into account for the identification of a Global Grounding System are given.

On the Impact of Heat Pumps Electric Load on the Power Consumption of Lampedusa

The present paper reports the results of a simulation study regarding the impact of the adoption of heat pumps for domestic hot water production in the island of Lampedusa (Italy). In the study, it has been assumed to replace electric storage water heaters with heat pumps at every dwelling of the about four thousand domestic end-users of the island and, in addition, to control the heat pump operation in order to enhance some parameters that characterize the quality of the generation and distribution system of the island (power peak, energy losses and voltage drop). According to the results of the simulations, while the replacement of electric storage water heaters with heat pumps is able to…

On the effects of BAC systems and load control programs on the utility grid

The electricity demand increasing for the comfort improvement in residential buildings is nowadays stressing the MV and LV networks in urban areas. In this framework, the Distribution System Operators (DSO) are exposed to the risk of reliability decrease and there is, earlier than expected, the issue of new and substantial investments for enhancing the network infrastructure. Nevertheless, DSOs have a very strong inclination to defer investment in new facilities in favour of more "flexible measures" for improving the life of the existing components. Solutions of this type are primarily based on demand management, i.e. activities aimed at encouraging the end-users to a different/smart electr…

Green Data Centres integration in smart grids: New frontiers for ancillary service provision

Abstract The paper presents a study, conceived within the GEYSER FP7 co-funded European research project, on the ancillary services that Green Data Centres (GDCs) can provide, focusing, in particular, on spinning reserve. More in detail, the main contribution of the paper is to show how GDCs can be involved in the secondary frequency regulation process of a smart distribution grid, for contrasting the disturbing effects of unexpected variation of the energy production. With this aim, a real data centre, owned by Engineering S.p.A., is simulated as connected to the Medium Voltage IEEE 14-bus test grid where some RES-based generators are supposed to exist. Simulations are carried out in order…

Dynamics photovoltaic generators: Technical aspects and economical valuation

The strategy adopted from many European nations and not, to entrust the electric energy production to differently energetic sources has determined an increment of the scientific research for the solar resource exploitation. These scientific community activities follows with attention from the entrepreneurial world have concentrated on the innovative techniques and methodologies of the source conversion, solar concentration and the direction's device optimization. This job focuses its attention on the simple application of solar-track device, based on consolidated technologies. The diffused application of these dispositive, could be, shortly, an important increment of electricity generation …

A load model for EV parking lots

In the next years, electric mobility will be one of the issues electric utilities will have to face. The detailed modeling of the electric load generated by the presence of Electric Vehicles, EV, parking lots will be essential to simulate the different working conditions of new distribution systems. Also the detailed modeling will allow to deduce technical and economical aspects, allowing Distribution Systems Operators to devise the right incentives for EV customers. Such as, or maybe more than, residential loading the EV loading is strongly variable because it is connected to the human behavior, the modeling thus has to include stochastic terms. Moreover, to get realistic load profile for …

Empirical BAC factors method application to two real case studies in South Italy

Abstract The application of Building Automation and Control (BAC) systems has many advantages. One of these is the reduction of the end-user electricity consumption and, if applied to lighting systems, the achievement of well-acknowledged benefits from daylight, such as productivity, health, visual comfort and well-being. Concerning the first aspect, the international Standard EN 15232 proposes the so-called BAC Factors (BF) method to assess the impact of BAC systems on the final energy consumption. The method provides a simplified estimation of the energy savings due to automation in buildings and questions arise on its applicability in some situations. For this reason, the authors have ca…

Assessing the lighting systems flexibility for reducing and managing the power peaks in smart grids

Abstract The application of “shiftable” or “modulable” load (i.e. washing machine, dishwasher, etc.) in a Smart Grid, can provide energy saving or modify the power flows in the grid, allowing a reduction of the electrical power peak. This paper explores the possibility to modulate the indoor artificial lighting to support this reduction. The study examines the impact of two different measures of power shaving. On the one hand, the change of Correlated Colour Temperature of the light source, and, on the other hand, the dimming of its luminous flux. The possibility to merge the above-mentioned technical solutions is also analyzed. Based on these strategies, several daily schedules of lighting…

Earthing system’s design in presence of non-uniform soil

The authors propose a practical approach for facing the problem of the design of the earthing systems in two-layer soils. The approach is based on the calculation of an equivalent resistivity of the non-uniform soil through which the designer can treat this one as it was uniform. The purpose of the Authors is to provide an innovative simple method and some easy-to-use graphs for an easy earthing systems' design in two-layer soils.

FROM FUEL BASED GENERATION TO SMART RENEWABLE GENERATION: PRELIMINARY DESIGN FOR AN ISLANDED SYSTEM. PART II: SELECTION OF FUTURE SCENARIO AND ECONOMICAL ISSUES

The subject addressed in this paper is the analytical study of the transition of the energy generation system for a real MV/LV distribution system from a ‘fuel based’ one to a distributed and smart ‘renewables based’ one. The paper outlines the economical issues related to such transition from one type of system to the other and it is the prosecution of a companion work addressing the technical topics concerning this subject. The study is carried out for a real islanded MV/LV distribution network.

Inertial response of isolated power networks with wind power plants

The constant increase of power generation provided by renewable energy source (RES) power plants is causing a progressive reduction of the overall inertia of the power systems. Especially in the case of small, isolated power networks, the replacement of conventional generation plants with RES power plants can affect significantly the frequency response of the system. The critical low-inertia conditions can be improved by the introduction of specific additional controls to the RES power converters. These control schemes are known as “synthetic inertia” or “virtual inertia” controls. The paper analyzes the impact of a derivative-based inertial control on a small, isolated power system, with a…

Analysis and simulations of the primary frequency control during a system split in continental europe power system

The occurrence of system separations in the power system of Continental Europe has been observed in recent decades as a critical event which might cause power imbalances higher than the reference incident specified per system design, representing an actual challenge for the stability and safe operation of the system. This work presents an analysis and simulations of the primary frequency control in the Continental Europe synchronous area in conditions of system separation. The adopted approach is based on fundamental aspects of the frequency-containment reserve process. The analysis takes an actual event into consideration, which determined the separation of the system in January 2021. The …

Transient Electrical Behaviour of the TF Superconducting Coils of Divertor Tokamak Test Facility During a Fast Discharge

The paper is focused on the electromagnetic analysis of the Toroidal Field (TF) superconducting coils of the Divertor Tokamak Test facility (DTT) when electrical transients occur in the TF coils system: for example, during the operations of the Fast Discharge Units (FDUs) and considering also, the simultaneous occurrence of a fault condition. During the FDU intervention, a transient voltage excitation lasting few microseconds occurs at the TF coil terminals and it electrically stresses the insulations of TF coils itsef. To investigate the voltage distribution across, inside and between different Double Pancakes (DPs) of each TF coil, a lumped parameters circuital model has been developed an…

Results of the research on global earthing systems: A contribution to the problem of their identification

The paper presents a study on the factors that can have influence on the rise of a Global Earthing System. The first part of the work deals with: - the definition of proximity, interconnection and quasi-equipotential; - the influence of the presence of HV/MV stations on the dangerous voltages and on the permissible voltage limits; - the dependence of the hazardous condition for persons on the different kind of fault; - the effects on safety of the coexistence of HV, MV and LV systems. In the second part, starting from the discussion on the themes above-mentioned and on the results of the studies, measurement campaigns and simulations on interconnected earthing systems done in the last fifte…

How Decarbonization, Digitalization and Decentralization are changing key power infrastructures

Abstract This paper addresses the impact over key power infrastructures of the three main drivers for change of these times: Decarbonization, Digitalization and Decentralization. The three phenomena, according to prominent observers, are affecting all fields of our lives but, in the literature, it is difficult to find an analysis of their impact on electrical power systems. The framework proposed in this paper, based on the main power systems evolution models proposed by CIGRE, uses data from open databases and tries to find out general guidelines for power systems development at a worldwide level. Taking as reference the European and COP21 environmental objectives and beyond, the technolog…

Forensic Inspections in the Time of Covid-19

The global pandemic of COVID-19 has impacted the entire world in ways that were unimaginable months ago. It has changed how professionals work and interact with one another. To ensure the safety of experts and attorneys, also forensic inspection procedures must evolve, while still providing a reliable foundation for an expert testimony, relevant to the task at hand. Traditional field inspections require attendees to be physically present and generally in close proximity. Inspecting artifacts may also require that individual components be serially examined by multiple experts, which increases the risk of transmitting the disease. The authors propose a new approach to forensic inspections aim…

Practical tables for the design of the grounding systems in distribution networks in presence of metallic interconnection

The present paper deals with the dependence of the ground current, due to a single-line-to-ground fault in a secondary substation, on the electrical and geometrical parameters of a Medium Voltage distribution network in which a metallic interconnection between the grounding systems is realized. Examining different situations, some easy-to-use tables are provided for a practical approach to the design of the ground electrodes of the secondary substations in these networks. The relevance of the work is due to the lack in the international standards of specific indications on how to consider the presence of the interconnection elements in distribution networks.

A New Platform for Automatic Bottom-Up Electric Load Aggregation

In this paper, a new virtual framework for load aggregation in the context of the liberalized energy market is proposed. Since aggregation is managed automatically through a dedicated platform, the purchase of energy can be carried out without intermediation as it happens in peer-to-peer energy transaction models. Differently from what was done before, in this new framework, individual customers can join a load aggregation program through the proposed aggregation platform. Through the platform, their features are evaluated and they are clustered according to their reliability and to the width of range of regulation allowed. The simulations show the deployment of an effective clustering and …

An Innovative Conversion Device to the Grid Interface of Combined RES-Based Generators and Electric Storage Systems

This paper is focused on the development of an innovative device, which is based on a bidirectional converter, for the interface to the supply utility grid of combined renewable-energy-source-based generators and electric storage systems. The device can be controlled so as to ease the interface between the low-voltage grid and photovoltaic or wind generators combined with lithium-ion $\hbox{LiFePO}_{4} $ batteries, taking into account the requirements of the reference technical standards for users connection and offering different ancillary services. The operational functioning of the device, the architecture, and its electronic components, as well as laboratory and field test activities an…

Analysis of Interconnected Earthing Systems of MV/LV Substations in Urban Areas

The paper proposes a study of the fault current distribution in an extended interconnection of earthing systems, belonging to secondary substations, during a single-line-to-earth fault. By applying the analysis methodology defined by the same authors in some previous works, the paper shows how the value of some important geometrical and electrical parameters of a MV network can influence the value of the earth current at the fault location.

Evaluation of natural products to control some rose diseases.

Condition Assessment and Analysis of Bearing of Doubly Fed Wind Turbines Using Machine Learning Technique

Condition monitoring of wind turbines is progressively increasing to maintain the continuity of clean energy supply to power grids. This issue is of great importance since it prevents wind turbines from failing and overheating, as most wind turbines with doubly fed induction generators (DFIG) are overheated due to faults in generator bearings. Bearing fault detection has become a main topic targeting the optimum operation, unscheduled downtime, and maintenance cost of turbine generators. Wind turbines are equipped with condition monitoring devices. However, effective and reliable fault detection still faces significant difficulties. As the majority of health monitoring techniques are primar…

Effect of Demand Side Management on the Operation of PV-Integrated Distribution Systems

In this new era of high electrical energy dependency, electrical energy must be abundant and reliable, thus smart grids are conducted to deliver load demands. Hence, smart grids are implemented alongside distributed generation of renewable energies to increase the reliability and controllability of the grid, but, with the very volatile nature of the Distributed Generation (DG), Demand Side Management (DSM) helps monitor and control the load shape of the consumed power. The interaction of DSM with the grid provides a wide range of mutual benefits to the user, the utility and the market. DSM methodologies such as Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) and Direct Load Control (DLC) collaborate i…

Le verifiche sugli impianti di terra. Implicazioni del concetto di Impianto di Terra Globale

A statistic approach of cables ageing in MV lines on thermal and electrical combined stress

The paper introduces a methodology that through a probabilistic characterisation of load for MV network, and implementing a life model for combined electric and thermal stresses, simulates the process of ageing of the insulating materials evaluating the expected life time of the cable. Such evaluation is necessary to the possibility of assuming less restrictive thermal overloading limits on electrical cables, with the consequential increase on reserve that cables could offer. A numerical example is reported to better explain the methodology

Demand Response for Integrating Photovoltaic Plants in Lampedusa Island

This paper presents the results of a simulation study concerning different Demand Response logics applied to Electric Storage Water Heaters on the island of Lampedusa. Electric Storage Water Heaters are the devices that are primarily used on the island to produce domestic hot water. Starting from measured load profiles collected in Lampedusa, a domestic hot water consumption profile was derived, to simulate the energy usage of the Storage Water Electric Heaters during the day. This work was carried out as a preliminary feasibility study for the BloRin project, financed by cohesion funds in the Sicilian region. According to the project, which also includes the installation of domestic photov…

Independent energetic grids for a smart island: Model and design of a microgrid for a small Italian island

Unlike many Italian peninsular areas, which are increasingly turning to a diverse supply of renewable resources to generate electricity, Italian not-interconnected small islands continue to rely on oil for their electricity and other energy needs (e.g. transports). Small-scale electricity systems, that are not connected to a larger electricity grid, are usually more expensive. The present paper proposes the functional design of an innovative Smart Grid which allows changing an Italian small not-interconnected island, Pantelleria, into a smart island, towards a more sustainable energy model. In detail, a techno-economic feasibility study is performed in order to design a Smart Grid at Pantel…

Studio di fattibilità e progettazione preliminare di dimostratori di reti elettriche di distribuzione per la transizione verso reti attive. Report 1 – Caratterizzazione delle reti attuali e analisi di possibili scenari di sviluppo

A stochastic approach for self-healing capability evaluation in active islanded AC/DC hybrid microgrids

This paper aims to implement a resilience assessment in AC/DC hybrid microgrids using a stochastic simulation approach. Self-healing measures including load shedding, control of distributed generation and flexible devices, like Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and Electrical Vehicles (EVs), are simulated to enable AC/DC hybrid microgrids to supply critical loads in islanded mode, assuming a disconnection of these microgrids from the main AC grid due to a fault. To perform this analysis, a two-stage process is proposed: first, a Monte-Carlo simulation-based stochastic approach is adopted to generate samples to simulate intermittent loads, power generation from Renewable Energy Sources (RESs), an…

New Energy Corridors in the Euro-Mediterranean Area: The Pivotal Role of Sicily

The present paper deals with the new opportunities deriving from the interconnections of the European and North African transmission systems. In order to achieve a single international market for electricity exchanges, interconnections between networks in different countries are becoming increasingly important and Sicily, for its geographical position in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, will undoubtedly play an important role as an electrical bridge between Europe and the North Africa in the near future. The paper, presenting the actual electro-energetic context of Tunisia, reports the new important interconnection already realized in South Italy (in particular in Sicily) and describe t…

Online optimization of a multi-conversion-level DC home microgrid for system efficiency enhancement

In this paper, an on-line management system for the optimal efficiency operation of a multi-bus DC home distribution system is proposed. The operation of the system is discussed with reference to a distribution system with two conversion stages and three voltage levels. In each of the conversion stages, three paralleled DC/DC converters are implemented. A Genetic Algorithm performs the on-line optimization of the DC network’s global efficiency, generating the optimal current sharing ratios of the concurrent power converters. The overall DC/DC conversion system including the optimization section is modelled using MATLAB/Simulink. Thanks to the implemented online algorithm, considering …

On the hazardous situations due to the presence of HV/MV substations in urban areas

The paper focuses on the hazardous situations that can rise in urban areas in case of earth fault inside a High Voltage/Medium Voltage station. IEEE and IEC/EN Standards and technical documents are examined and discussed, in order to propose some practical guidelines for a safe integration of such installations in contexts characterized by the presence of low voltage systems and not trained persons.

Economic feasibility of a customer-side energy storage in the Italian electricity market

Electricity prices show significant short-term variations during the day due to the need of balancing supply and demand in real time. Normally, customers are not exposed to these variations but pay a constant electricity price. In an attempt to reduce the volatility of the wholesale prices, several utilities are moving from conventional fixed-rate pricing schemes to new market-based models, where the electricity price can fluctuate during the day depending on the market conditions. Examples of time-dependent pricing schemes are Time-Of-Use (TOU) tariffs, where the electricity price can take two or three price levels during the day, or Real-Time Pricing (RTP) tariffs, where the energy price …

Impact of building automation control systems and technical building management systems on the energy performance class of residential buildings: An Italian case study

Abstract The paper focuses on the evaluation of the impact on residential buildings of building automation control (BAC) and technical building management (TBM) systems. This work shows how the control, monitoring and automation functions considered by the European Standard EN 15232 can considerably influence the energy performance of a single-family test house and, consequently, its energy performance class. The study puts into evidence that the benefit that can be drawn from the installation of BAC and TBM systems depends on the type of technical appliances in the household and on the starting energy performance class. Finally, the economic impact due to the introduction of BACS or TBM fu…

A simple unsynchronized two‐end algorithm for faults location and identification in electrical distribution systems

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify a new and simple two‐end algorithm for fault location identification and characterization, in electrical distribution systems.Design/methodology/approachThe developed diagnostic algorithm is based on a simple model of the network using a lumped parameters representation.FindingsTest results have proved the approach to be efficient, allowing a precise fault identification and location while not requiring synchronized measures from the two ends.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a need for measurement systems at all MV/LV substations.Practical implicationsApplicability with limited investments is not possible where metering systems are no…

Analisi di impianti di terra interconnessi, in reti MT con neutro a terra tramite bobina di Petersen

Evaluation of the Administrative Phase-Out of Coal Power Plants on the Italian Electricity Market

Although decarbonisation is one of the most important macro-trends of this century, electricity generation from coal power plants is still broadly common. The main goal of this study is to evaluate the impact of a premature coal power plants phase-out on the Italian day-ahead electricity market. For this purpose, two electricity price forecasts, related to different scenarios between 2019 and 2030, and two different hypotheses for the creation of electricity spot price, were compared. The results from the different scenarios show that coal power plants phase-out determines a small variation in electricity price when bid-up is not considered

FROM FUEL BASED GENERATION TO SMART RENEWABLE GENERATION: PRELIMINARY DESIGN FOR AN ISLANDED SYSTEM. PART I: TECHNICAL ISSUES AND FUTURE SCENARIOS

The subject addressed in this paper is the analytical study of the transition of the energy generation system for a real MV/LV distribution system from a ‘fuel based’ one to a distributed and smart ‘renewables based’ one. The paper outlines the technical issues related to such transition from one type of system to the other. The study is carried out for a real islanded MV/LV distribution network located in the Island of Pantelleria. The economical issues regarding the above transition are focused in a companion paper.

Assessment of the production costs curve in micro-grids: a comparative analysis

In micro-grids, due to their small scale, there is commonly only one power supplier. A competitive wholesale market hardly exists so the question about how to consider market issues for small producers within micro-grids arises. On the other hand, the specific features of micro-grids where load and generated power hardly find a balance, require that customers take part to regulation issues, maybe using demand response programs. In this paper, price responsive policies and its programs are discussed to answer this question. A case study of a micro-grid with one microturbine and two photovoltaic generators in Italy is analyzed to assess the overall production cost in order to build a price re…

Demand Response Pricing Strategies for Islanded Microgrids

In this paper, Time of Use and Critical Peak Pricing policies are designed and their effects on optimized operation is evaluated. For this purpose, an optimal operation algorithm is employed and the relevant production costs are derived. As far as the Time of Use policy is concerned, such costs are observed to be different in two time intervals of the day, due to the loads changing effect and the production of renewable energy. Whereas in the Critical Peak Pricing Policy, a peak time interval is identified to set up different pricing rates. The optimization algorithm used to carry out the work described above minimizes the microgrid's energy losses, the production costs and the Green House …

A new model for a safety analysis in a system of earthing systems interconnected through bare‐buried conductors

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a mathematical model for studying the effects of the interconnection through bare‐buried conductors (BBC) of the secondary substations' earthing system of an urban area.Design/methodology/approachThe developed methodology is based on three main points: the solution of the transmission lines' equations for the formulation of a lumped parameters model of a BBC considering the conductive effect; the division of the distribution network into simpler sub‐systems; and the calculation of all the voltages and currents of the medium voltage (MV) network and of the earthing systems using a multiport approach.FindingsThe methodology has been applied to va…

Study and simulation of photovoltaic installation connected to the grid with storage system

In the present paper, a new approach to the management of energy resources in a research laboratory is proposed and evaluated by a simulation for the PV installation realized for the Tunisian-Italian cooperation project DE.DU.ENER.T, using renewable energy and economic criteria. The aim of this project is to improve energy efficiency order to minimize the electricity cost consumed at the laboratory, because according to the bills of electricity received we noticed that there is a high consumption of electrical current, from the STEG grid, and especially by the energy intensive equipment such as drying ovens and all the workstations. So we targeted to install a photovoltaic field of 12KWc to…

Monitoring of renewable energy prototype for the DEDUENERT research project

In this paper, we present a renewable energy sustainable micro-system installed upon a platform located in the Research and Technology Centre of Energy in Borj Cedria Techno park (Tunisia). This prototype has been conceived within the ENPI (European Neighborhood and Partnership Instrument) cross-border cooperation Italy-Tunisia 2007–2013 research project framework. This project's overall goal is to develop a common strategy for the deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency by endorsing the cooperation between Italy and Tunisia. The focus is to implement the use of sustainable energy microsystems that generate electricity from various renewable sources (solar thermal, photovoltaic…

Blockchain for power systems:Current trends and future applications

Abstract Today, the blockchain is synonymous of technological innovation, being recognized among the 10 top strategy technologies in 2018 by the consulting company Gartner, it is more and more adopted in different sectors. However, the initial enthusiasm around this technology is going beyond the peak of inflated expectations, towards more stable applications in money transactions, cryptocurrencies and Digital Commodity Exchanges. Essentially, misguided efforts, the overuse of blockchain, and the Bitcoin's price drop have been the main reasons for this decay in expectations. Nevertheless, the exploitation of the blockchain technology in the power systems area appears largely underexplored, …

An optimization approach for efficient management of EV parking lots with batteries recharging facilities

In this paper an optimization approach to devise efficient management strategies for Electric Vehicles parking lots is proposed. A Monte Carlo approach is used to evaluate the load consumption profile for groups of Electric Vehicles showing different features. The Monte Carlo approach allows to combine the different social and economical features affecting the commercial penetration of Electric Vehicles with the technical aspects. The basic feature to be assessed is the initial State Of Charge, which in turn depends on the distance travelled by the vehicle since the last recharge and thus by the usage of the vehicle (private, professional). The model is then used to optimize some objective …

Fall of Potential Measurement of the Earth Resistance in Urban Environments: Accuracy Evaluation

Both Standards EN 50522 and IEEE 81 propose the fall of potential method (FPM) to carry out the measurement of the resistance to earth ( $R_{\text{ES}}$ ) of an earthing system (ES). However, in urban areas, the recommended distances between the ES and auxiliary electrodes are not easy to respect, due to the presence of buildings and tarmac. Furthermore, unknown buried metallic parts and interconnections among ESs could modify the earth potential profile of the area, affecting the measurement results. In this paper, the key-issues that influence the measured $R_{\text{ES}}$ when the FPM is used in an urban environment are presented. A parametric analysis, carried out with Comsol Multiphysic…

Experimentation of sustainable energy microsystems: The DE.DU.ENER.T. research project

The paper focuses on an energy sustainable prototype micro-system installed upon a roof of a building in Valderice (Italy). This micro-system has been conceived in the ENPI (European Neighborhood and Partnership Instrument) cross-border cooperation Italy - Tunisia 2007–2013 DE.DU.ENER.T. (Le DEveloppement DUrable dans la production ENERgetique dans le Territoire) research project framework. The main aim of this project is the construction of a sustainable energy micro-system prototype suitable for the optimal integration and management of renewable energy resources (photovoltaic, wind and solar thermal) and to reduce the building's energy consumption. In the paper the project and the protot…

ICT applications for improving the generation and distribution efficiency of a small mediterranean island

The paper presents a study on the opportunities offered by ICT for improving the efficiency of the generation and distribution system of a small island. The island taken into consideration is the Italian Lampedusa island. In the paper, the power distribution system of the island is described and the summer and winter daily load profiles are examined in order to define the more suitable control actions for improving the generation and distribution efficiency of the power system. Finally the architecture of an idoneous control system for the smart grid is proposed and an evaluation of the purchase and installation costs of components and devices for the transition of a traditional house towar…

A study on the assessment of the production costs curves in micro-grids

In micro-grids, due to their small scale, there is commonly only one power supplier. A competitive wholesale market hardly exists, so the question about how to consider market issues for small producers within micro-grids arises. On the other hand, the specific features of micro-grids where load and generated power hardly find a balance, require that customers take part to regulation issues, also using demand-response (DR) programs. In this paper, price responsive (PR) policies and their programs are discussed to answer this question. A case study of a micro-grid with one micro-turbine and two photovoltaic (PV) generators is analyzed to assess the overall production cost in order to build a…

Economic Feasibility of Measures for Energy Efficiency

In this chapter the economic impact of some measures for energy efficiency, both using automation of technical infrastructures (according to EN 15232) as well as implementing passive measures concerning the use of building materials and techniques (according to EN 15271), is studied. The chapter is organized as follows. First, a technical-economical study on the evaluation of the impact on residential buildings of Building Automation Control, BAC, and Technical Building Management, TBM, systems is presented. Then the same assessment of some passive measures that can be employed is carried out using the Passive House Standard for Mediterranean warm climates is shown. Numerical elaborations h…

A New Meta-Heuristic Multi-Objective Approach For Optimal Dispatch of Dispersed and Renewable Generating Units in Power Distribution Systems

The application of stochastic methods in engineering research and optimization has been increasing over the past few decades. Ant Colony Optimization, in particular, has been attracting growing attention as a promising approach both in discrete and continuous domains. The present work proposes a multi-objective Ant Colony Optimization for continuous domains showing good convergence properties and uniform coverage of the non-dominated front. These properties have been proved both with mathematical test functions and with a complex real world problem. Besides the second part of the chapter presents the application of the new algorithm to the problem of optimal dispatch of dispersed power gene…

Analysis of some renewable energy uses and demand side measures for hotels on small Mediterranean islands: A case study

Abstract Tourist activity strongly influences the energy consumption and the overall load profile of communities with isolated energy systems. One example is hotel sectors on small islands that are not connected to mainland energy distribution grids. The use of solar energy systems could be a smart option for reducing energy consumption and tackling seasonal fluctuation. The operation of a weak and isolated electric grid requires attention to the management of power profiles in very short time frames. Energy storage (thermal or electric), as well as building automation control technologies, can be utilised for these aims. In this context, the present paper illustrates a study conducted at a…

Conceptual Design and Modeling of Fast Discharge Unit for Quench Protection of Superconducting Toroidal Field Magnets of DTT

The paper deals with the modelling and simulation of a Fast Discharge Unit (FDU) for quench protection of the Toroidal Field (TF) magnets of the Divertor Tokamak Test, an experimental facility under design and construction in Frascati (Italy). The FDU is a safety key component that protects the superconducting magnets when a quench is detected through the fast extraction of the energy stored in superconducting magnets by adding in the TF magnets a dump (or discharge) resistor. In the paper, two different configurations of dump resistors (fixed and variable respectively) have been analysed and discussed. As a first result, it is possible to underline that the configuration with variable dump…

Risk indexes for studying interconnected earthing systems inside MV networks

The paper presents a risk-evaluation-based approach to the issue of interconnection between the earth electrodes of the MV/LV substations within MV networks. After a short introduction on the interconnection between earthing systems, the paper proposes four risk indexes defined starting from the safety requirements given by CENELEC HD 63 7 S1. The indexes allow one to put in evidence, in a clear way, the benefits of the interconnection in terms of reduction of risk of critical electric shock for persons and of stress on the insulation of the LV devices in the presence of single line to earth faults and double earth faults inside MV/LV substations and single line to earth faults inside HV/MV…

Building Automation and Control Systems and Electrical Distribution Grids: A Study on the Effects of Loads Control Logics on Power Losses and Peaks

Growing home comfort is causing increasing energy consumption in residential buildings and a consequent stress in urban medium and low voltage distribution networks. Therefore, distribution system operators are obliged to manage problems related to the reliability of the electricity system and, above all, they must consider investments for enhancing the electrical infrastructure. The purpose of this paper is to assess how the reduction of building electricity consumption and the modification of the building load profile, due to load automation, combined with suitable load control programs, can improve network reliability and distribution efficiency. This paper proposes an extensive study on…

Fire risk assessment and cable selection for enduser substations

This paper examines the issues related to fire risk assessment in end-users substations. Fires in substations may be caused by electrical faults, overvoltages, lack of maintenance, etc. It is crucial that fires be confined within the substation, and not propagate into the adjacent environment, where their effects may put at risk personnel, as well as other properties. To reduce this risk of propagation, the choice of cables and the related wiring methods are crucial; in addition, the characteristics of cable chases that route cables from the substation to adjacent rooms is very important. IEEE and IEC fire protection standards for end-user substations are herein discussed, with emphasis on …

Minimum power losses by using droop coefficients regulation method with voltage and frequency constraints in islanded microgrids

In this paper, a droop coefficients regulation methodology is proposed for an islanded microgrid to optimize the power losses. Based on the P-f and Q-V relations to adjust the droop coefficients at every loading condition, the optimized operating set point generates minimum power losses operation while satisfying the constraints of voltage and frequency limitation. A 9-bus case study is here implemented to show the effectiveness of this new approach as well as the improved operation quality of the system.

Analysis of a Fast Reserve Unit Behaviour with Additional Modular Synthetic Inertia Control

The paper presents the results of a theoretical study on the behaviour of a battery storage system operated as a Fast Reserve Unit and equipped with additional synthetic inertia control. The Fast Reserve Unit is assumed connected to the transmission system of Sicily, operated as an isolated grid in order to show more clearly the effect of the Fast Reserve Unit intervention during a power imbalance. The unit is controlled also to provide synthetic inertia with a conventional control scheme and with a new scheme proposed by the authors and named “Modular Synthetic Inertia”. The latter has been conceived for offering a modular response as a function of the Rate of Change of Frequency, to avoid…

Characterization of a small Mediterranean island end-users’ electricity consumption: The case of Lampedusa

Abstract The paper presents the results of a study carried out on Lampedusa Island (Italy) and based on the survey of electricity consumption data. The main outcomes of the study are: • the characterization of the energy demand of private houses and hotels in Italian small islands with significant touristic flows during the summer period; • the identification of inefficient use of the electric loads; • the construction of aggregated load profiles for clusters of homogeneous domestic end-user to be used for implementing Demand Response strategies. The study shows how electricity consumption in Mediterranean small islands are very high with respect to the national average and lays the basis f…

An original control strategy of storage systems for the frequency stability of autonomous grids with renewable power generation

This work examines the operation of the autonomous power system of a geographical island assuming the integration of significant generation shares from renewable energy sources and the installation of the required storage systems. The frequency stability of the system is investigated considering different operating conditions, in terms of load demand and renewable power generation. The main focus of the work is an original control strategy specifically designed for power converters interfacing storage units to the grid. The proposed strategy is based on an extended frequency droop control, which selects specific droop settings depending on the operating mode—charge or discharge—of the stora…

Market-oriented analysis for active distribution systems

Distribution networks are today the place where demand and offer are physically located and meet. Offer comes from Generation companies, through distributed generation, while demand is usually represented by simple users. Distribution company both buy and sell energy so they implement both sides. The EU promotes the free market and the renewable energy sources (RES) supported by the distributed generation technology. The technical-economical scenario in which distributed generation is thus growing is complex and comprises a large number of stakeholders. The authors, on the basis of previous studies want to analyse the problem of identifying sets of stakeholders sharing the common interest o…

Effect of Integrating Photovoltaic Systems on Electrical Network Losses Considering Load Variation

Planning of Distributed Generation (DG) units in the power distribution networks is an important issue, one of the most important considerations that is directly affected by installing DG units is the power losses. Improper allocation of DG units to the grid can lead to a noticeable increase in the power losses. Moreover, the load variation is considered as critical matter when studying the optimal scenario that minimizes the power losses in the network. The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of integrating photovoltaic (PV) units on the distribution network losses considering load variation. The optimal parameters of the DG units were calculated for the various load demands in …

Electrical Safety Analysis in the Presence of Resonant Grounding Neutral

The resonant grounding is one of the possible methods of the system neutral grounding for the medium voltage distribution. IEEE standards do define this grounding configuration, but important advantages and drawbacks of the resonant grounding might not be fully known, due to its rather uncommon application in North America. On the other hand, resonant grounding in Europe is imposed by the increased requirements for power quality, especially for medium-voltage (MV) industrial users, imposed to electric utilities by regulatory authorities, with the purpose to protect the interests of users and consumers. Level of the continuity of the service, magnitude and phase of ground-fault currents, mag…

The Blockchain in Microgrids for Transacting Energy and Attributing Losses

In recent years novel models for energy distribu- tion appeared and islanded microgrids quest for new ways to exchange energy between consumers and producers without the need of central authorities. The blockchain mechanism has emerged as a distributed solution for recording energy transactions in power systems. The blockchain has been used to permit users bartering and selling energy and to keep track of such exchanges without exposing them to tampering. In this work, we consider a novel application of the blockchain in islanded microgrids that includes also annotating energy losses caused by energy transactions, in order to have a more realistic matching between the physical status of the…

COMPORTAMENTO IN TRANSITORIO DI IMPIANTI DI TERRA INTERCONNESSI SOGGETTI A FULMINAZIONE ATMOSFERICA

L’attività di ricerca è orientata all’analisi del comportamento in transitorio, durante una eventuale condizione di fulminazione atmosferica diretta e/o indiretta, di impianti di terra interconnessi in sistemi elettrici in media tensione (MT). Usualmente l’interconnessione è realizzata attraverso la guaina metallica dei cavi in MT o mediante l’impiego di corde di rame nudo interrate parallelamente al percorso dei cavi stessi. Tale interconnessione, impiegata durante il normale servizio elettrico per limitare l’ampiezza dell’eventuale corrente di guasto a terra, contribuisce anche a modificare la distribuzione della corrente di fulmine in caso di fulminazione diretta o indiretta dell’impiant…

Economic feasibility of stationary electrochemical storages for electric bill management applications: The Italian scenario

Battery energy storage systems (BESSs) are expected to become a fundamental element of the electricity infrastructure, thanks to their ability to decouple generation and demand over time. BESSs can also be used to store electricity during low-price hours, when the demand is low, and to meet the demand during peak hours, thus leading to savings for the consumer. This work focuses on the economic viability of BESS from the point of view of the electricity customer. The analysis refers to a lithium-ion (Li-ion), an advanced lead-acid, a zinc-based, a sodium-sulphur (NaS) and a flow battery. The total investment and replacement costs are estimated in order to calculate the cumulated cash flow, …

Multi-objective optimized management of electrical energy storage systems in an islanded network with renewable energy sources under different design scenarios

The subject addressed in this paper is the definition of some strategies for the design and the optimaized management of EES (Electrical Energy Storage) systems, for an existing islanded distribution network supplying the Island of Pantelleria (Italy) in the Mediterranean Sea. In the paper the authors have drawn interesting conclusions through the application of an efficient MO (multi-objective) optimization algorithm, the NSGA-II, minimizing the energy losses in the grid, the total electricity generation cost and the greenhouse gas emissions. The results obtained for different installation scenarios of the EES are presented and discussed, putting into evidence the technical, environmental …

A model for considering proximity effect on bare buried conductors connecting together MV/LV substations' earth electrodes

A Simulation Analysis of VSM Control for RES plants in a Small Mediterranean Island

The paper presents an application of Virtual Synchronous Machine control for managing inverter-interfaced renewable energy sources in a small Mediterranean island not supplied by the main grid. In the proposed analysis, the island's renewables-based generators area assumed interfaced to the grid by voltage source converters with a swing controller and a vector-current controller with two different options for the reference current for regulating the voltage at the Point of Common Coupling and the active power output. The system, modeled in PScad environment, allows to verify the response of the renewables-based generators with VSM control in the presence of a fault in the grid.

Technical and economical assessment of distributed electrochemical storages for load shifting applications: An Italian case study

Time-of-use (TOU) energy cost management involves the use of energy storage systems (ESSs) by customers to reduce their electricity bills. The ESS is charged during off-peak time periods, when electricity energy prices are low, and discharged during times when on-peak energy prices are applied. This article addresses the question whether it is economically viable to install medium-scale distributed ESSs designed to lower the electricity cost for a customer-side application, assuming flexible electricity tariffs. The technical/economical evaluation is carried out referring to lithium-ion (Li-ion), sodium sulfur (NaS) and vanadium redox battery (VRB) technologies, performing a parametric anal…

A Simulation Analysis for Assessing the Reliability of AC/DC Hybrid Microgrids - Part II: Port Area and Residential Area

This paper reports the second part of a simulation study with the aim of evaluating the ability of two portions of a hybrid AC/DC MV/LV network in maintaining their operation in off-grid mode during the loss of the main AC grid due to a failure. In particular, this paper follows a dual purpose: first, it analysis two microgrids in a residential area and a port zone capability of operating in islanded mode, applying a probabilistic approach, while there is different energy use cases, and second is to evaluate some reliability indicators.

Influence of LV neutral grounding on global earthing systems

International Standards define a Global Earthing System as an earthing net created interconnecting local Earthing Systems (generally through the shield of MV cables and/or bare buried conductors). In Italy, the regulatory authority for electricity and gas requires distributors to guarantee the electrical continuity of LV neutral conductor. This requirement has led to the standard practice of realizing “reinforcement groundings” along the LV neutral conductor path and at users’ delivery cabinet. Moreover, in urban high-load scenarios (prime candidates to be part of a Global Earthing System), it is common that LV distribution scheme creates, through neutral conductors, an effective connection…

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

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 …

Una Via Elettrochimica per la Fabbricazione di Celle Solari a Semiconduttori Nanostrutturati

Nella memoria si presentano i risultati preliminari su un processo di crescita elettrochimica di materiali nanostrutturati mediante l’impiego di stampi nanoporosi. Vengono quindi analizzate le possibili applicazioni del processo alla fabbricazione di semiconduttori nanostrutturati di interesse nel settore fotovoltaico, quali il CIGS, e le implicazioni dal punto di vista delle tecniche di caratterizzazione e di modellazione per dispositivi basati su tale tecnologia.

Driven Primary Regulation for Minimum Power Losses Operation in Islanded Microgrids

The paper proposes an improved primary regulation method for inverter-interfaced generating units in islanded microgrids. The considered approach employs an off-line minimum losses optimal power flow (OPF) to devise the primary frequency regulation curve’s set-points while satisfying the power balance, frequency and current constraints. In this way, generators will reach an optimized operating point corresponding to a given and unique power flow distribution presenting the minimum power losses. The proposed approach can be particularly interesting for diesel-based islanded microgrids that face, constantly, the issue of reducing their dependency from fossil fuels and of enhancing their gener…

A practical method to test the safety of HV/MV substation Grounding Systems

The adequacy of a Grounding System (GS) to the safety conditions has to be periodically tested by measurements. The test methods and techniques used to verify the electrical characteristics of the GS include the measurements of step and touch voltages. The goal of the test is to verify that touch voltage and step voltage remain below a safe value in all the zones of the installation. The measurements can present some operational difficulties. The purpose of this paper is to present the procedure, step-by-step, of a practical method of measuring touch/step voltages in grounding systems located in urban or industrial areas with reduced accessibility. The suggested method uses auxiliary curren…

Impact of Demand Response Control Logic on Isolated Island's Distribution Networks

The work presents the results of a study regarding the impact of some Demand Response control logics on an isolated distribution network. The proposed control is divided into precise steps in which the coordination between the general aggregator controller and the single local Energy Management Systems is developed and illustrated with details. The control is applied to the flexible loads and to the storage systems of photovoltaic plants installed at the end-users' houses and connected to the network. The study is carried out delivering a suitable network model of the island's system, with the implementation of load profiles for all the loads of the network for a total simulation time of 24…

A Simulation Study for Assessing the Minimum Number of V2G Recharge Points in Favignana

Issues related to the stability of non-interconnected grids are of high relevance given the increasing presence of renewable sources in the power generation system. In order to ensure adequate levels of system's reliability, it is necessary to find new methods to ensure the stability of the electric grid. The present work proposes a methodology for the definition of the minimum number of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) charging points that would allow the integration of 1 MW of photovoltaic power in the power grid of the Italian island of Favignana, electrically disconnected from the continental grid. Primary frequency regulation simulations are carried out in Matlab/Simulink environment for differen…

A Model for the Study of Sheath Currents in Medium Voltage Cables for Industrial Application

In this paper, the implementation of a simulation model for studying the effect of cross-bonding of metallic sheaths and/or non-magnetic armor of single-core medium voltage cables in the same circuit is discussed. With the use of single-core cables, the resistive losses due to the induced circulating currents in cable sheaths or armors causes an increase of cable temperature that reduces its ampacity. In addition, the risk of electric shock due to induced voltages may be present if a person is exposed to the armor/sheath at the unbounded end. For this reason, special bonding techniques are used to significantly reduce these currents. The authors have implemented a model that could be used t…

A double-shell design approach for multiobjective optimal design of microgrids

This work develops a new double shell approach to optimal design for multi-objective optimally managed systems. The cost of each design solution can be defined by the evaluation of operational issues and capital costs. In most systems, the correct definition of operational issues can be deduced by means of the solution of a multi-objective optimization problem. The evaluation of each design solution must thus be deduced using the outcome of a multi-objective optimization run, namely a Pareto hyper-surface in the n-dimensional space of operational objectives. In the literature, the design problem is usually solved by considering a single objective formulation of the operational issue. In thi…

Optimal power flow for technically feasible energy management systems in islanded microgrids

This paper presents a combined optimal energy and power flow management for islanded microgrids. The highest control level in this case will provide a feasible and optimized operating point around the economic optimum. In order to account for both unbalanced and balanced loads, the optimal power flow is carried out using a Glow-worm Swarm Optimizer. The control level is organized into two different sub-levels, the highest of which accounts for minimum cost operation and the lowest one solving the optimal power flow and devising the set points of inverter interfaced generation units and rotating machines with a minimum power loss. A test has been carried out for 6 bus islanded microgrids to …

Definition and Assessment of a BAC Factor for Estimating Electrical Consumption of Outdoor Lighting

The BAC factors method was introduced by the international Standard EN 15232 for a rough evaluation of energy savings in buildings obtained thanks to automation. The above standard considers the building's services such as heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting and takes into account automation on the basis of assumed usage profile for the related technical installations. However, the standard does not refer specifically to the automation of outdoor lighting systems such as those serving gardens, entrance walkways and passages around the building and supplied by it. In this paper, the authors propose a method for evaluation an outdoor BAC factor for lighting system considering various s…

Study of the safety conditions in an extended interconnection of earthing systems of a MV network during an earth fault on the HV network

A Feasibility Study for the Transition to Electric Mobility in the Island of Favignana

The energy transition and climate neutrality are a short time scenario as climate concerns are rising fast. Small islands are natural microgrids in which the energy transition is subjected to economic and regulatory constraints and highly challenged by technical issues. As a first step, the Mediterranean island of Favignana has been considered in this study, to assess how electric mobility could impact the power system. According to the plans from the local decision makers, the island is moving towards a full public electric mobility in the near term, also due to the participation in the BloRin project. For this reason, a feasibility study about the technical and environmental impact of ele…

A Bidirectional Converter for the Integration of LiFePO4 Batteries with RES-based Generators Part I: Revising and Finalizing Design

This paper presents a device for controlling and connecting combined Renewable Energy Sources (RES)-based generators and electric storage systems to the supply utility grid. The device is a bidirectional converter that can be controlled in order to facilitate the interface between the low voltage grid and small generators combined with lithium-ion LiFePO4 batteries, contemporary addressing the requirements of the reference technical standards for users connection and providing different ancillary services. The paper describes the revising and finalizing activities carried out by the DEIM of the University of Palermo and ENEA during 2013.

Economic impact of BACS and TBM systems on residential buildings

The paper presents the results of a study on the economic impact of building automation control systems and technical building management systems on residential buildings. The different functions considered by European Standard EN 15232 and having impact on the energy performance of buildings are applied to a test house, varying its energy efficiency class. The economic impact due to the introduction of each BACS or TBM function is evaluated using the BAC factors method, considering the real costs for the purchase and the installation of the components that implement the specific functions and the yearly energy costs of the building before and after their installation.

Experimental results on the economic management of a smart microgrid

The aim of this paper is to assess economic benefits deriving from the adoption of a smart microgrid. To this end, a case study consisting of 250 houses connected to the distribution network through a MV/LV transformer substation has been investigated and implemented in the experimental microgrid built at the Polytechnic University of Bari, Italy. The analysis has been performed by comparing three different energy providers: the utility grid, the utility grid with the inclusion of non-programmable renewables generators, and the inclusion of such residential loads into a smart microgrid. The obtained results demonstrated that with the adoption of a smart microgrid significant costs savings c…

A Methodology for Exploiting Smart Prosumers’ Flexibility in a Bottom-Up Aggregation Process

The electrical power system is evolving in a way that requires new measures for ensuring its secure and reliable operation. Demand-side aggregation represents one of the more interesting ways to provide ancillary services by the coordinated management of a multitude of different distributed resources. In this framework, aggregators play the main role in ensuring the effectiveness of the coordinated action of the distributed resources, usually becoming mediators in the relation between distribution system operators and smart prosumers. The research project DEMAND recently introduced a new concept in demand-side aggregation by proposing a scheme without a central aggregator where prosumers ca…

A distributed minimum losses optimal power flow for islanded microgrids

Abstract In this work, the minimum losses optimal power dispatch problem for islanded microgrids with distributed energy resources (DER) is solved by means of a distributed heuristic approach. Optimal power management is performed almost in real time, with a predefined schedule, i.e. every 5 min, and the solution is applied to generators when the current operating solution violates voltage or current constraints or when the current configuration produces too large power losses. The operating point of both inverter-interfaced generation units as well as rotating production systems can be modified simply using local information. The latter are voltage measurements and power injections or load…

An analysis methodology to evaluate the contribution to electrical security given by bare buried conductors in a system of intertied earthing grids

The paper presents an analysis methodology for a single-line-to-ground fault, occurring at a secondary MV/LV substation in a power network formed by a HV/MV station, feeding, through a MV tri-phase cable line, N MV/LV substations whose earth electrodes are interconnected by bare buried conductors. In the preliminary explanation of the methodology, earth buried conductors are studied in their double function of earth electrodes and connection elements between earthing grids, both in absence and in presence of other interfering conductors. Subsequently analyzed is, with a distributed parameters approach, the system constituted by an earth buried conductor and a MV tri-phase cable line. The eq…

La terra deviata

On the effects of HV/MV stations on global grounding systems

The METERGLOB project has faced the issue of the identification of Global Grounding Systems. One of the main point of the problem is to define if an interconnection of single grounding systems gives place to a Global Grounding System in any condition and for every kind of ground fault. This paper focuses the attention on what happens in the case of single line to ground fault inside a HV/MV station whose ground electrode is connected to the cable' shields of the MV lines outgoing the station and supplying the secondary substations of a given area.

Short-circuit Calculations in Hybrid AC/DC Microgrids

In this paper, the issues related to short-circuit calculations in hybrid AC/DC microgrids are discussed. The reference standard for short-current calculations in DC systems is the IEC 61660, which provides a mathematical formulation of the problem. The standard only includes radial DC grids and does not consider a more complex system, such as meshed DC systems or a hybrid AC/DC microgrid. This paper proposes a generalized approach that can be used independently of the characteristics of the hybrid system. The proposed approach is applied to two test microgrids and the results are compared with those obtained simulating the same grids with Neplan 360.

Electrical Safety of Resonant Grounding

The resonant grounding is one of the possible methods of system neutral grounding for the medium-voltage distribution. IEEE standards do define this grounding configuration, but important advantages and drawbacks of the resonant grounding might not be fully known, due to its rather uncommon application in North America. On the other hand, resonant grounding in Europe is imposed by the increased requirements for power quality, especially for medium-voltage industrial users, and imposed to electric utilities by Regulatory Authorities, with the purpose to protect the interests of users and consumers. Level of the continuity of the service, magnitude and phase of ground-fault currents, magnitud…

DC Grids for Supporting AC Power System during Failure Events: Experimental Testing of a Urban Case Study

AC power systems and their devices can be subjected to different failure events due to thermal, environmental, and aging phenomena. In this context, DC grids intervention could mitigate customers black-out by adequately controlling their internal resources (renewable generators and storage systems). In this paper, failure events concerning HV/MV transformer are considered. Possible actions to support the AC grid to avoid interruption in load areas are analyzed and experimentally validated. Tests campaigns are carried out taking advantage of a research nanogrid infrastructure available at ENEA Centre of Portici. It consists of indoor equipment able to emulate actual generation, load and stor…

Frequency dynamics of power systems with temporally distributed disturbances

Abstract The frequency dynamics and stability of power systems is essentially affected by nature and characteristics of the disturbances occurring in the system. Conventionally, frequency transients are examined assuming a single disturbance applied at a given time. However, actual incidents in the power systems can be generally composed of a temporal sequence of events, and thus characterized by multiple power imbalances of different magnitudes and time offsets. The consideration of the effects of the temporal distribution of power imbalances is important for two main reasons: the impact on the frequency dynamics of the system in terms of frequency metrics such as minimum instantaneous fre…

Assessing the electricity consumption of outdoor lighting systems in the presence of automatic control: The OL-BAC factors method

Abstract Building automation systems are able to influence significantly buildings’ energy performance. The BAC factors method, presented for the first time by the International Standard EN 15232, is the most used and simple instrument for evaluating the impact of such systems in terms of reduction of the electrical and thermal energy consumption of buildings services. Nevertheless, Standard EN 15232 does not take into consideration the automation of lighting systems serving buildings’ external areas like passages, gardens, entrance walkways, etc. In some cases, such areas can be very extended and, as a consequence, responsible for a not negligible percentage of the overall electricity cons…

Problematiche di sicurezza inerenti il collegamento di impianti di terra di stazioni AT/MT a impianti di terra globali

Proximity effect on bare buried conductors connecting together MV/LV substations’ earth electrodes

Optimal energy management in the smart grid

The Smart Grid is a modern electricity grid allowing for distributed, renewable intermittent generation, partly owned by consumers. This requires advanced control and communication technologies in order to provide high quality power supply and secure generation, transmission and distribution. This book outlines these emerging technologies. Topics covered include an introduction to smart grid architecture; smart grid communications and standards; measurement and sensing devices for smart grids; smart transmission and wide area monitoring system; bad data detection in smart grids; optimal energy management in smart grids; communication and control for the smart grid; smart consumer systems; i…

Evaluation of the optimal renewable electricity mix for Lampedusa island: The adoption of a technical and economical methodology

Abstract Worldwide, the majority of small islands not connected to the main grid is still dependent on fossil fuels. From an economic and environmental point of view, this condition is no more sustainable given the high costs for electricity generation and the high level of pollutant emissions. Furthermore, the dependence on fossil fuel represents a risk for the security of the supply of several small developing Countries since they are obliged to import those resources from foreign Countries. The introduction of renewable energy sources in small islands represents a valid solution to solve these problems. In this context, the paper investigates the case of Lampedusa, a small Italian island…

Stability Analysis in a Vietnam Small Island for the Deployment of a Nearshore Wave Power Plant

The requirement for a more sustainable energy mix is promoting the spreading of technologies supplied by renewable sources. However, the introduction of unprogrammable energy sources in small electrical grids could jeopardize the stability of the entire system. In this context, the paper analyses a small island in Vietnam, assessing the effects due to the installation of a new power plant supplied by sea wave energy. While the installation of this technology could represent a great opportunity to reduce the local energy dependence, on the other side the quality of the supply could be worsened. Solutions are assessed to allow a good network service.

A Comparison between RMS and EMT Grid-Forming Implementations in MATLAB/Simscape for Smart Grids Dynamics

The article presents a comparison between phasor RMS and EMT models for grid-forming converters. The specific aspects related to the implementation in Simscape Electrical of MATLAB/Simulink are discussed for both RMS and EMT time-domains. The comparison between the different implementations is performed with the simulation of two widely studied grid-forming schemes, the virtual synchronous machine and the power-synchronization control. The simulation-based comparison examines transient phenomena with different characteristics and time scales, including frequency transients, phase jumps and short-circuit events. Specific indications regarding limitations and suitability of grid-forming model…

Micropropagazione di Metrosideros excelsa

Feasibility analysis and study of a grid-connected hybrid electric system: Application in the building sector

This paper represents the feasibility study and analysis of a grid-connected hybrid (PV-Wind) system with battery, realized within the project DE.DU.ENER.T and installed in the research centre CRTEn located in the northern Tunisia in the city of Borj-Cedria. The main objective of this work is to exploit renewable sources of electrical energy production to electrify the desired building. So, to minimize electricity consumption costs, reduce the adverse effects of pollutants products from the diesel power systems and sometimes happen to sell the surplus of energy produced. The HOMER (Hybrid Optimization Model of Electric Renewable) software is used to estimate system size and its performance …

Analysis of the limitations of WiFi communications managed by the IEEE 802.11 protocol in data transmission in automated power distribution systems

This paper presents a study on the performances of the IEEE 802.11 protocol used in a Medium Voltage networks management system, carried out using a model for the simulation of WiFi chains architectures. The results of the simulations give some practical indications for the use of the IEEE 802.11 protocol also in presence of transmissions characterized by rigid time intervals, for which this protocol is usually not suitable. Finally the whole communications system is presented.

Optimal pricing strategies in real-time electricity pricing environments: An Italian case study

The energy market has changed radically over the last decade, mainly due to an increased penetration of renewable energies. Now the end users have directly access to the energy market and can actively take part to the electricity market. Electricity customers can indeed modify their behavior through Demand Response (DR), namely by means of pricing strategies that support a change in the end-users habits. This can be accomplished through a 'loads aggregator', a third party that collects the requests and signals for Active Demand-based services coming from the markets and the different power system participants. This paper describes a new framework able to optimally select the real-time prici…

Feed-in Tariffs for Grid-connected PV Systems: The Situation in the European Community

Distributed generation demonstrates to be able to significantly influence the electric power system bringing considerable benefits to the quality of service and improving the energetic efficiency of the distribution network. In particular, in the last few years, distributed generation from renewable sources is considerably increased thanks to the many support policies promoted worldwide with the aim of facing the environmental issue and the problem of the permanent rise of prices of the fossil energy. In this contest the paper presents a study of the "feed-in tariffs" financing measure carried out, at present, in many European countries and responsible of the increase in these last years of…

SVILUPPO DI ALGORITMI DI OTTIMIZZAZIONE FINALIZZATI A DIMENSIONAMENTO E GESTIONE MULTICRITERIO DI SISTEMI INGEGNERISTICI

A new model for a safety analysis in a system of earthing systems interconnected through bare buried conductors

DEMAND Project: Bottom-Up Aggregation of Prosumers in Distribution Networks

The paper explains the concept of the DEMAND project, whose aim is to develop a technical framework for allowing a Bottom-Up aggregation of prosumers connected to the distribution grid. Load and generation aggregation is a very current issue given the great potential that the coordinated management of distributed resources has on power systems operation and design. The novelty in DEMAND is the absence of a physical aggregator and the recourse to a virtual aggregation environment (VAE) for allowing the exchange of information among the prosumers in order to provide a service to the DSO. After a general description of the research project, the paper presents the services that the aggregated c…

Optimal Energy Management in Smart-Grid

In this chapter, the problem of energy management in smart-grids is outlined. Optimized energy management is here considered as the operation of energy and power flow control in the aim of attaining minimum cost or minimum power losses while meeting technical constraints. Of course, according to the type of energy system in which such operation is carried out, the meaningful variables and objectives in the problem may largely change. As the extension of the system increases, the influence of the physical behaviour of the electrical power lines takes a more important role. Power electronics takes instead an increasing influence, as the dimension of the power system decreases although Kirchho…

A method for the evaluation of fault current distribution in complex high voltage networks

Abstract The paper presents a method for the study of large interconnected earthing systems in High Voltage networks. The mathematical model proposed for calculating the distribution of the Single-line-to-Earth fault current is useful for a methodical and accurate analysis of complex systems having meshed configuration and more sources, and has practical application for the Transmission System Operator. Two case studies are provided. The first one considers a fault occurring inside and outside a station in a real 220 kV transmission network. In the second example, the proposed methodology is compared with the classical “Double-sided elimination” method.

An Analysis of the Intertial Response of Small Isolated Power Systems in Presence of Generation from Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable Energy Sources are posing critical issues related to the mining of power systems stability, essentially due to a decrement of the inertial response during system's contingencies. As a consequence, to preserve the security and the reliability of the system, it is necessary to adopt new frequency adjustments mechanisms. This issue becomes particularly critical in isolated power systems, like those of small islands not supplied by the main grid, in the case of high shares of production from unpredictable renewabies such as photovoitaic and wind sources. In this framework, the present work deals with the analysis of the variation of the inertia time constant of a small island in vario…

Calculation of Energy Performance Indices of Daylight Linked Control Systems by Monitored Data

The actual performances of Building Automation systems are often lower than the ideal ones. In order to investigate the actual performance of a Building Automation system for lighting control, a large stock of collected data, including indoor illuminance and absorbed electric power, have been presented and analysed in this paper. The measures have been taken during one year, in a laboratory located at the University of Palermo, where different lighting control systems, produced by two different manufacture companies, have been installed. As demonstrated in literature, many factors affecting energy savings’ evaluation in lighting control systems are the position and the typology of the senso…

Damping Provision by Different Virtual Synchronous Machine Schemes

The adoption of virtual synchronous machine (VSM) schemes for the control of power converters is gaining more and more attention both in academia and industry. The VSM control strategies fall into the category of grid-forming converter controls, and they are intended for a range of different applications, providing specific services and different kinds of support to the grid. The paper investigates the possibility of damping provision to the system by VSM power converters. Different schemes are considered and compared, showing the opportunity of the investigated solutions through combined modal and time domain analyses. A specific modification of the power synchronization loop is recognized…

A NEW REPRESENTATION OF ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS OPERATION USING FOURIER THEORY IN OPTIMAL SMART GRIDS MANAGEMENT

This paper investigates the possibility to use a new modeling of Energy Storage Systems based on zero integral functions. Such functions represent the course of the energy level stored in batteries during the solution of optimal management problems in smart-grids. Storage devices, such as all the other components that are required to meet an integral capacity constraint along the dispatch time, must show the same State of Charge at the start and at the end of the timeframe considered for operation. In this paper, a set of sinusoidal functions have been used for the synthesis of the charge and discharge course of energy Storage Systems. Such representation allows to eliminate the difficult c…

Optimal Sizing and Siting of Distributed Energy Resources Considering Public and Private Incentive Policies

The present work presents the formulation and solution approach for the problem of optimal sizing and siting of distributed energy resources based on Photovoltaic, PV, technology. The considered system is an isolated grid (small island) and the parts involved are the utility and the customers. As it happens in islands, the same utility generates and delivers energy to customers, for this reason, the installation of dispersed generation units is beneficial for reducing power losses, regularizing the voltage profile, but also for increasing the profit. The problem is solved by means of the Non dominated sorting Genetic Algorithm II, NSGA-II, identifying the optimal size and location of PV sys…

Application of Thermographic Techniques for the Detection of Failures on Photovoltaic Modules

The paper focuses on thermography as a useful investigation tool for diagnosis, detection and prevention of failures of photovoltaic modules. The paper describes the faults detectable by thermographic investigations and how to conduct these investigantions. Then the results of some analyses conducted on a photovoltaic field are presented. The investigations made possible to identify faulty modules with hot spots by measuring localized superheat due to the presence of concentrated deposits on the exposed surface of the module and the superheating due to the presence of sand/dust deposits distributed on a significant portion of the module surface. The thermographic investigations can be used …

Architetture e logiche di controllo ottimale di microreti per la razionalizzazione energetica Report 1 – Identificazione ed analisi di architetture e logiche di controllo ottimale di microreti per la razionalizzazione energetica

Il presente Rapporto descrive le attività svolte dal personale del DIEET dell’Università degli Studi Palermo nell’ambito della prima fase delle attività di ricerca dal titolo: “ARCHITETTURE E LOGICHE DI CONTROLLO OTTIMALE DI MICRORETI PER LA RAZIONALIZZAZIONE ENERGETICA’”, oggetto dell’Accordo di Collaborazione tra ENEA e DIEET sottoscritto in data 24 febbraio 2011. In fase di avvio delle attività, DIEET ed ENEA hanno concordato: che le reti sulle quali sviluppare le analisi e le successive simulazioni devono essere reti esistenti al fine di orientare il presente studio ad una successiva sperimentazione sul campo. Le attività sono state condotte in sinergia con il personale tecnico designat…

Generatori fotovoltaici dinamici: aspetti tecnici e valutazioni economiche per il loro impiego

La strategia adottata da molte nazioni, europee e non, di affidare la produzione dell’energia elettrica ad un insieme equilibrato di fonti energetiche ha determinato un incremento delle attività di ricerca anche per lo sfruttamento della risorsa solare. Queste attività intraprese dalla comunità scientifica e seguite con attenzione dal mondo imprenditoriale si sono concentrate sulle tecniche e metodologie innovative di conversione della fonte, sulla concentrazione della radiazione solare nel punto di collocazione del dispositivo di conversione o ancora sull’ottimizzazione dell’orientamento del dispositivo rispetto alla direzione della radiazione. Questo lavoro focalizza la sua attenzione su …

Sustainable Energy Supply in Vietnam

The steep growth of electricity demand in Vietnam (11% per year on average since 2006) calls for a deep rethinking of the Vietnamese electrical power system. Its topological structure indeed may not be well suited for a deep penetration of renewable energy sources and a predictable increase of reactive industrial loads. The Vietnamese power system is described and a few analytical methods are considered for its study both in steady state and in dynamic conditions in different scenarios. The power system simulation software Neplan is used for the implementation of the system’s model and the performing of the dynamic analysis.

A Self-Adapting Approach for Forecast-Less Scheduling of Electrical Energy Storage Systems in a Liberalized Energy Market

In this paper, an original scheduling approach for optimal dispatch of electrical Energy Storage Systems (ESS) in modern distribution networks is proposed. The control system is based on fuzzy rules and does not use forecasts since it repairs the past history according to the real time data on the electrical energy cost, renewable energy production and load. When the system detects a worsening of performances, the fuzzy logic rule-based control system self-adapts its membership functions using an economic indicator. The common use, in the relevant literature, of forecasted values in such systems can lead to large errors and economic losses. Moreover the speed of calculation guaranteed by th…

A Technical Approach to the Energy Blockchain in Microgrids

The present paper considers some technical issues related to the “energy blockchain” paradigm applied to microgrids. In particular, what appears from the study is that the superposition of energy transactions in a microgrid creates a variation of the power losses in all the branches of the microgrid. Traditional power losses allocation in distribution systems takes into account only generators while, in this paper, a real-time attribution of power losses to each transaction involving one generator and one load node is done by defining some suitable indices. Besides, the presence of P–V nodes increases the level of reactive flows and provides a more complex technical perspective. For this re…

A General Methodology for Short-circuit Calculations in Hybrid AC/DC Microgrids

In this paper, the issues related to short-circuit calculations in hybrid AC/DC microgrids are discussed. The reference standard for short-current calculations in DC systems is the IEC 61660, which provides a mathematical formulation of the problem. The standard only includes radial DC grids and does not consider a more complex system, such as meshed DC systems or a hybrid AC/DC microgrid. This paper proposes a generalized approach that can be used independently of the characteristics of the hybrid system. The proposed approach is applied to four test microgrids with different distributed sources and number of nodes and the results are compared with those obtained simulating the same grids …

Fundamental Analysis of Grid-Forming Converters Enhanced with Feedforward Controls

The grid-forming control for power converters can be enhanced by proper feedforward terms included in the active power control loop. Two basic structures are identified, the feedforward angle and the feedforward frequency. The formal analysis of the transfer functions reveals a structural similarity. The two schemes exhibit however a fundamental difference in their transient capabilities. The grid-forming controls are characterized with the introduction of two specific factors, for the direct assessment of the inertia and the damping which can be provided by the grid-forming converter. The sensitivity analysis of the two feedforward schemes indicates that the enhancement of the transient pe…

Multiobjective Optimal Reconfiguration of MV Networks with Different Earthing Systems

The paper deals with the traditional problem of multiobjective optimal reconfiguration applied to power distribution systems considering the safety issue in the formulation. The applications are devoted to the solution of the posed problem in networks in which coexist energy sources with unearthed neutral point and resonant earthed neutral point. After a brief review of the most recent papers on optimal reconfiguration, the paper outlines the safety problem and provides a solution to the multiobjective problem using the Non dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II aiming at: minimal power losses operation, safety check at distribution substations and load balancing among the HV/MV transformer…

Extension and Tuning of Virtual Synchronous Machine to Avoid Oscillatory Instability in Isolated Power Networks

The risk of oscillatory instability introduced by virtual synchronous machines (VSM) control in isolated power networks is investigated. The considered control is a common scheme widely studied in literature, in several configurations and for different case studies. The impact of the VSM control on the system stability is examined for the existing power network of a Mediterranean island. The VSM control is implemented within the power converters interfacing the energy storage systems (ESS) installed in the network. Simulations and analysis show the occurrence of oscillatory instability in the system, with the ESS-VSM and the synchronous machines of the network progressively swinging against…

A Methodology for Protection of Trees Against Lightning Strikes as a Measure to Prevent Fires and Loss of Human Life

Some regions may be characterized by a very low annual lightning ground flash density, and yet lightning strikes seem to have been in those areas the cause of widespread wildfires in forested areas. Due to global climate change, these occurrences seem to be an increasing threat. In this paper, the authors discuss the withstand capability of trees against lightning and introduce the criteria for the deployment of tree lightning protection systems (TLPS) to protect forested areas, where deemed necessary by the tree risk assessment. This work analytically identifies the critical trunk radius of the tree below which the tree may explode in the case of a lightning strike and ignite the surroundi…

Overgrid: A Fully Distributed Demand Response Architecture Based on Overlay Networks

In this paper, we present Overgrid, a fully distributed peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture designed to automatically control and implement distributed demand response (DR) schemes in a community of smart buildings with energy generation and storage capabilities. As overlay networks in communications establish logical links between peers regardless of the physical topology of the network, the Overgrid is able to apply some power balance criteria to its system of buildings, as they belong to a virtual microgrid, regardless of their physical location. We exploit an innovative distributed algorithm, called flow updating, for monitoring the power consumption of the buildings and the number of nodes…

Alternative energy storage options for heat pump water heater coupled with photovoltaic plant for domestic hot water production

The present work relies on the topic of energy storage for Heat and Electricity applied to Heat Pump Water Heaters coupled with photovoltaic plants for Domestic Hot Water production. The main idea is to evaluate the possibility to exploit the water tank as heat storage for the produced photovoltaic energy and, where appropriate combined with electrical storage. For this reason, two heat pumps with different volume size have been chosen and smart control strategies have been applied while monitoring the water temperature in the tank. Calculations account on tapping profile inferred from monitored data of a representative end-user in a Mediterranean small island. Results show how the combinat…

Definition and application of innovative control logics for residential energy optimization

In this paper different innovative control logics for electric and thermal loads control in residential buildings are presented. The designed control logics are implementable in residential buildings thanks to Building Automation Control Systems (BACS) and Technical Building Management (TBM) systems. They have been tested using a simulation tool developed by the authors that is able to assess their effects on residential buildings having various characteristics and equipments. An application example is presented.

A Remuneration Model of Energy Community Members in Italy

The Directive (EU) 2018/2001 (RED II) requires Member States to authorize the constitution of consumers as self-consumers of renewable electricity by ensuring them non-discriminatory and disproportionate treatment. Member States must establish a favorable framework for promoting and facilitating the development of self-consumption, including in collective form (art. 21). According to the Directive, the granting of rights to renewable energy self-consumers who act collectively allows to increase the energy efficiency of households and helps to combat energy poverty by reducing consumption and supply tariffs. In Italy, the decree n. 162/2019 and then amended with Decree 199/2021 has partially…

On the Interconnections of HV–MV Stations to Global Grounding Systems

The interconnection of grounding systems of HV-MV stations via the armors of medium voltage cables, is herein analyzed to verify the effects on touch voltages in ground-fault conditions. The major contributions of this paper are two: the analysis of the impact of an HV ground-fault on a global grounding system (GGS), and the analysis of the parameters that may affect safety due to the interconnection between HV-MV stations and the GGS. The authors have analyzed cases when the connection of an HV-MV station to a GGS improves safety, and then may introduce hazards under ground-fault conditions. Two main issues are herein discussed: 1) the transfer of dangerous voltages to substations, due to …

Grid-forming converters. A critical review of pilot projects and demonstrators

Grid-forming control can be a useful solution for all dynamic issues in weak grids and for providing ancillary services. It represents the new frontier in modern power electronics, responding to the needs of power systems more and more rich in renewables and, for this reason, with lower inertia. Today, the research on grid-forming is mainly oriented to propose new and more effective control schemes and to evaluate their performances with simulation tools, but few works in the literature focus on the results of on-field experimentation. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of grid-forming pilot projects and demonstrators developed worldwide. The work describes the mai…

A simulation study for assessing the impact of energy storage systems for Fast Reserve with additional synthetic inertia control on the Continental Europe synchronous area

This article shows the results of a simulation study on the application of battery storage systems for providing fast frequency regulation (the so-named Fast Reserve) with additional synthetic inertia control. The aim of the study is to assess the impact of the extension of the regulation provided by the FRUs to all the Continental Europe synchronous grid, with the same power proportions of the first Italian FRU auction. The simulations are conducted in two different scenarios: a base one related to 2020 and a future one related to 2040 and based on ENTSO-E projections for load and generation. The results show that, for the reference incident of 3000 MW, the frequency quality parameters in …

Mixed heuristic-non linear optimization of energy management for hydrogen storage-based multi carrier hubs

In this paper, an heuristic and non-linear programming based algorithm to optimally operate an energy hub plant is proposed. The energy hub plant described in this work is the test system for the European INGRID research project. The Energy Management System defines the optimal energy flows dispatch in order to obtain the energy balance and the maximum profit for the owner of the plant. The problem is highly constrained and non-linear, for this reason the methodology cannot rely on Linear Programming (LP) methods. The Energy Management System manages two energy carriers, electricity and hydrogen, interfacing three distribution networks: the electricity, the hydrogen and the methane networks…

An Improved Approach to the Simulation of Single-Line-to-Ground Faults in Transmission Networks

These paper presents a mathematical model for studying the Single-Line-to-Ground fault in transmission networks, giving a personal contribution for a methodical and accurate analysis of complex systems, by providing an evolution of the “circuital method” able to solve the case of a system in which more than one line supply the fault.

Protection of Trees against Lightning Strikes as a Measure to Prevent Fires and Loss of Human Life

Lighting strikes have been the catalyst of massive uncontrolled fires in areas of combustible vegetation. In some regions, lightning strikes may be a relatively unusual occurrence (e.g., California), but instead they seem to have become a major contributor to the propagation of wildfires, as a byproduct of climate change. Given such unusual weather, wildfires originating from lightning are an increasing threat. In this paper, the authors discuss the withstand capability of trees against lightning and introduce a proactive approach to prevent wildfires by the deployment of tree lighting protection systems (TLPS) to protect forested areas, where deemed necessary by the tree risk assessment.

A new architecture for Smart Contracts definition in Demand Response Programs

The present paper shows the possibility to use a smart contract for defining a distributed Demand Response mechanism. The use of the blockchain and smart contracts for the Demand Response mechanism allows the creation of an automatic system, where network users can communicate with the DSO to provide their flexibility. The blockchain ensures that the same information is shared among the users of the grid, while preserving user privacy. The DSO notifies the request to increase or reduce the load in a given period of the day using channels, a native abstraction of Hyperledger Fabric. The smart contract computes the support provided by each user to fulfill the requested load adaptation and aut…

A Novel Operating Strategy for Customer-Side Energy Storages in Presence of Dynamic Electricity Prices

In the wholesale energy market, electricity prices are determined by the balance between supply and demand. Normally, customers are not exposed to these variations but pay a constant electricity price. In an attempt to reduce demand peaks, several utilities are moving from a conventional fixed-rate pricing scheme to a new market-based model, based on time-of-use or real-time pricing, able to closely reflect the wholesale energy price. Electricity customers can thus take profit from the installation of storage systems, shifting their energy consumption from on-peak to off-peak periods. This paper presents a novel charging strategy to manage customer storage systems in presence of hourly elec…

Comparison between the performances of daylight linked control system at two different latitudes

The aim of this work is to compare the performance of a daylight-linked control system installed and tested in two different case studies by means of a set of indices. The two case studies are characterized by different geometry, location and windows orientation. The first one is located at the ENEA premises in Lampedusa (IT, 35° 30' N); the second one is located in Palermo (IT, 38°6' N) on the third floor of the building 9 of the Department of Engineering if the University of Palermo. In both cases, the indices were calculated by using the same daylight-linked control system and the same end-use (office). The results were reported and analysed in order to demonstrate as the performances of…

Smart grid integrated green data centres as ancillary service providers

In this paper a review of Green Data Centres facilities to support smart grids operation is proposed. The paper describes the ancillary services a Green Data Centre can provide both in terms of spinning reserve provision and different regulation services. In the application section, a real electrical grid hosting a data centre is considered. The infrastructure is owned by Engineering S.p.A. and is installed in northern Italy. The system has been considered as connected to the MV distribution grid in presence of other renewable energy sources. The impact of possible power management operations over the considered data centre has been studied by means of a simulation software and the spinning…

Predictive Model of Energy Consumption of a Home

The usage of the renewable energy sources and electric vehicles is rising which might result in a problem with the energy grid stabilization. Some works state that buildings contribute to the overall energy consumption by 20–40% which makes them a great subject to study. Finding solutions for better energy management can have a significant impact on the energy sector. This work focuses on proposing a simplified model of a home considering main appliances, heating and cooling, a photovoltaic system, an electric vehicle and weather and solar irradiance forecasts. The model is created in MATLAB as a simulation script with defined parameters. It uses a 5 day weather forecast to predict energy d…

A Comparison of Special Bonding Techniques for Transmission and Distribution Cables

In this paper, a review of the existing special bonding techniques for medium voltage (MV) and high-voltage (HV) cables is presented. Special bonding techniques have the purpose of reducing sheath currents, thereby limiting copper losses and the reduction of the ampacity of cables. The authors present a literature review to identify various bonding techniques and how these have evolved over the years thanks to new technologies. Simulations of the most used techniques have been performed in Matlab/Simulink, to compare their strengths and drawbacks.

Distribution grid analysys through PSAT open source tools

In this paper a study of an electrical distribution grid with presence of renewable energy sources performed using the Power System Analysis Tool is presented. The paper describes the load flow analysis of a real existing grid owned by the Italian DSO “ENEL Distribuzione SpA” and located in an urban area.

Virtual Synchronous Machine Control of RES Plants in Isolated Power Systems

Because of the increase in renewable energy sources (RESs) share, new control strategies of isolated power systems have been developed to improve the frequency and voltage stability of inverter-interfaced RESs. A voltage source converter (VSC) with a virtual synchronous machine (VSM) is among the most promising control schemes. This paper demonstrates how VSM control of inverter-interfaced RES can be efficiently used to improve the dynamic stability in small isolated power systems. In the proposed analysis, the RESs of a Mediterranean island are assumed interfaced to the grid by VSCs with a swing controller and a vector-current controller (VCC) with two different options for the reference c…

Critical assessment of support for the evolution of photovoltaics and feed-in tariff(s) in Italy

Abstract The feed-in tariff(s) mechanism involves an obligation on the part of an electricity provider to purchase electricity generated by renewable energy sources in its relevant area, paying a tariff determined by public authorities and guaranteed for a specific time period. Feed-in tariff(s) have been the primary mechanism used for supporting the development of renewable energy sources in the EU and, up to date, they are being applied in 20 EU Member Countries. On 6 July 2013, the Italian experience with feed-in tariff(s) for photovoltaic systems finished. During its lifetime of eight years, this incentive mechanism, named “Conto Energia”, was characterized by periods of great success f…

Predictions in Resilient Hybrid AC/DC Grids Leveraged by an Interoperable and Secure ICT Platform

Power systems are undergoing a significant change and the main elements to address the new challenges is the new key-role played by the distribution grid and its transformation into a smart grid. While the distribution grid has traditionally operated with alternating current (AC), nowadays most devices operate with DC internally, and most distributed renewable resources generate power in DC. Furthermore, storage components, such as batteries and supercapacitors, have a DC character. DC seems to be the one of the most promising candidates to avoid stranded investments and to guarantee incredible saving for the community in Europe, making the transition to a fully decarbonised energy system a…

Improving performance evaluation in a IEEE 802.11 chain topologies through a deterministic setting of backoff values

The chain networks based on the IEEE 802.11 protocol are implied in several applications. Their advantage is the robustness of protocol, but they suffer of performance decreasing due to the so-called hidden node problem. In literature some changes to the protocol have been proposed, but generally they are complex and request important modifications to the protocol structure. In this work, on the contrary, it is proposed an easily feasible 802.11 protocol change. In order to avoid collision, it is shared the channel in transmissions perfectly separated in time. Analysis and simulations, executed in chain networks composed by 4 nodes, will show how the proposed modification increases the perf…

Earthing System's Design in presence of non-uniform soil

The Authors propose a practical approach for facing the problem of the design of the earthing systems in two-layer soils. The approach is based on the calculation of an equivalent resistivity of the non-uniform soil through which the designer can treat this one as it was uniform. The purpose of the Authors is to provide an innovative simple method and some easy-to-use graphs for an easy earthing systems’ design in two-layer soils.

Dimensionamento di impianti di terra in impianti elettrici con tensione superiore a 1kV: analisi critica della Guida CEI 11-37 Ed. II

An Improved IEEE 802.11 Protocol for Reliable Data Transmission in Power Distribution Fault Diagnosis

A high level of power quality in distribution networks is obtained by means of a diagnostic software, that on-line assesses the status of the network, by elaborating the measured data. An efficient telecommunication system is thus necessary. Upon occurrence of a fault the reliability of the distribution system depends on the security of the timely protective and restorative actions on the network. In this paper, after a brief examination of the diagnostic method, the telecommunication system is examined. For this purpose, the WiFi telecommunication system has been considered the most suitable due to its economy, although it is not adequately reliable for how it is managed by the IEEE 802.11…

Interconnections criteria of grounding grids in global grounding systems

A Global Grounding System is defined as the combination of local grounding systems, obtained by their interconnection, which ensures, thanks to their proximity, that no dangerous touch voltages can arise. The interconnection of grounding systems via the armors of the MV cables, between secondary substations and HV/MV stations is herein analyzed to verify the effects on touch voltages in ground-fault conditions. In particular, two main issues are discussed: 1) the transfer of dangerous voltages to secondary substations, due to ground-faults occurring at the HV/MV station; 2) the reduction in the magnitude of the ground potential rise due to ground-fault conditions at secondary substations, t…

Innovative control logics for a rational utilization of electric loads and air-conditioning systems in a residential building

The paper focuses on the evaluation of the impact on residential buildings of innovative control logics defined for a rational utilization of the electric loads and air-conditioning systems. The control logics are implementable thanks to a Decision Support and Energy Management Systems developed by the same authors and easily installable in new and still-existing houses. The paper shows how a significant reduction of the primary energy consumption can be obtained by controlling the air-conditioning units together with the other electric loads of the house. After having explained how the control logics operate, a simulation tool is described, developed for a preliminary evaluation of their e…

SPEEDAM 2010 Poster REC0616: An electrochemical route towards the fabrication of nanostructured semiconductor solar cells

Progettazione di impianti fotovoltaici

System Stability of a Small Island's Network with Different Levels of Wind Power Penetration

The reduction of the inertial response of the generation system has been one of the main obstacles to the penetration of high sharing of renewable energy sources in islanded systems. This issue can be solved thanks to innovative control that makes wind turbines able to provide the so-named synthetic inertia. The paper investigates some scenarios with different levels of wind power penetration in a small island whose grid is not supplied by the main grid, by the use of the software NEPLAN 360, simulating the wind power plants accordingly to the standard IEC 61400-27. The aim of the paper is to assess the maximum level of penetration in the island of wind generation, with traditional control …

Multi-objective long term optimal dispatch of distributed energy resources in micro-grids

The amount of distributed generators in power distribution systems is evermore increasing, and the potential benefits and drawbacks are becoming clearer. The optimal management of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) in microgrids is essential to guarantee their best exploitation. Optimal operation allows to maximize their benefits, such as reduction of network energy losses, reduction of carbon emissions and to minimize the negative effects of a strong DER penetration, such as the increase of infrastructural investment and operational costs. Hence, DER management is a multi-objective problem in which many objectives of interest, often conflicting, need to be optimized simultaneously. In this…

Economic analysis on dynamic photovoltaic systems in new Italian “feed in tariffs” context

Dynamic photovoltaic generators, based on the application of solar-trackers, are able to give an increment to the electric energy production from solar source. Their realization and maintenance costs are certainly higher than those of fixed ones. In this paper the Authors propose a method to estimate the increment of electrical energy generation that must be guaranteed by a dynamic photovoltaic generator, so as its realization could be more favorable with respect to that of a fixed generator one with the same rated power. This method, developed by means of classical economic indexes like the Pay-Back-Period and the Net Present Value, takes in to account the economic incentives for the PV sy…

Architetture e logiche di controllo ottimale di microreti per la razionalizzazione energetica Report 2 Applicazioni in reti di distribuzione

Il presente Rapporto descrive, le attività svolte dal personale del DIEET dell’Università degli Studi Palermo nell’ambito della seconda fase delle attività di ricerca dal titolo: “ARCHITETTURE E LOGICHE DI CONTROLLO OTTIMALE DI MICRORETI PER LA RAZIONALIZZAZIONE ENERGETICA’”, oggetto dell’Accordo di Collaborazione tra ENEA e DIEET sottoscritto in data 24 febbraio 2011. Il presente Rapporto riporta le implementazioni della logica di controllo con una particolare attenzione al software che sovrintende alla gestione energeticamente efficiente dei sistemi individuati. Le implementazioni sono sviluppate in un ambiente di programmazione ad oggetti con una grafica di interfaccia che consente di se…

Transparency in transactive energy at distribution level

A recent report from the German Energy Agency analyzes the possible introduction of the blockchain technology in energy transactions in power distribution. The issue deserves attention since the extensive digitalization of business models puts new challenges to utilities in the power sector. The German decision makers in the energy field claim that blockchain appears as a close perspective and, at the same time, the Gartner hypecycle puts this technology at the peak of inflated expectations in 2016. Diffuse perception however provides hints for further investigation on the topic. This paper provides insight into the problem of peer-to-peer energy exchange from a technical perspective, provi…

A feasibility study of some DSM enabling solutions in small islands: The case of Lampedusa

Abstract The paper addresses the issue of the transition from a traditional electrical system without automation to a newer active and smart system allowing the possibility of implementing Demand Side Management policies, for little islands not supplied by the main grid. In particular, the paper focuses on two main topics related to the definition of: • an effective control, monitoring and communication system as a tool for the full exploitation of the opportunities given by Demand Response policies; • some solutions for the automation of the end-users’ electrical installations, in order to offer to the utility flexibility to be used for the improvement of the generation and distribution ef…

Sensitivity Analysis and Frequency Dynamics of Grid-Connected Converters with Virtual Inertia

For the participation in the frequency control of the system, power converters can be controlled with different strategies and methods, sharing the common concept of virtual inertia capability. In this work, a sensitivity analysis of two main categories of converter controls with virtual inertia is presented. The considered schemes are a grid-following current vector control with additional virtual inertia block and a grid-forming control scheme based on virtual synchronous machine concept. A proper basis for the comparison is first assessed providing an analytical correlation between the control parameters of the two schemes. For the two control strategies, the sensitivity analysis of the …

Antimicrobial actyvity of main compounds of essential oil extracts from Sygygium aromaticum (L.) Merril et L.M. Perry.

no

An optimal operating strategy for combined RES–based Generators and Electric Storage Systems for load shifting applications

This paper focuses on an optimal operating strategy of combined RES-based generators and electric storage systems for small/medium-scale public facilities. The operating strategy can be used in load shifting applications in response to a time-of-use (TOU) rate design with differential pricing for on- and off-peak usage. Load shifting applications can be exploited by customers using battery energy storage systems (BESS) in order to reduce their electricity bill, charging the storage when off-peak time periods are applied and discharging it during on-peak periods, when electricity energy prices are high. The operating strategy is implemented within a bidirectional converter that provides an i…

Transitions from grid-connected to island operation of Smart Microgrids

In this paper a control methodology is presented to perform a bumpless transition from the on-grid to the offgrid of a smart microgrid. The derived controller manages the internal production in order to get to zero the tie-line active and reactive power flows so that the opening of the tie line breaker does not produce significant perturbations. Experimental tests performed on the microgrid built at the Polytechnic University of Bari demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.

Frequency Dynamics in Fully Non-Synchronous Electrical Grids: A Case Study of an Existing Island

The operation of a power system with 100% converter-interfaced generation poses several questions and challenges regarding various aspects of the design and the control of the system. Existing literature on the integration of renewable energy sources in isolated systems mainly focuses on energy aspects or steady-state issues, and only a few studies examine the dynamic issues of autonomous networks operated with fully non-synchronous generation. A lack of research can be found in particular in the determination of the required amount of grid-forming power, the selection of the number and rated power of the units which should implement the grid-forming controls, and the relative locations of …

A laboratory setup for the evaluation of the effects of BACS and TBM systems on lighting

The paper focuses on the evaluation of the impact of Building Automation Control Systems (BACS) and Technical Building Management (TBM) systems on the performance of the lighting system in a residential building. In particular, this work shows a laboratory setup, installed at the DEIM of the University of Palermo, for simulating a typical apartment. The paper describes the laboratory, the lighting system and the BAC system installed and the test facility for evaluating the electricity consumption in presence and in absence of automation. The laboratory has been built within a research project funded by the Italian Minister of University and Research in the framework of the PON Smart Cities …

Improving the energy efficiency of an islanded distribution network using classical and innovative computation methods

The paper presents the analysis of some potentially suitable actions for reducing the energy losses of an islanded Medium Voltage distribution network, with the aim of improving electricity distribution efficiency. For this purpose, four actions are considered: 1) increasing the network's rated voltage; 2) reactive power compensation through static capacitor banks; 3) reactive power compensation through switchable capacitor banks; 4) installation of distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation. The first two measures are typically taken into account by the distribution system operators and can be examined by means of classical design methods, whereas the latter two more innovative actions are t…

Reliability Analysis of a Stand-Alone PV System for the Supply of a Remote Electric Load

The work presents a reliability analysis of a stand-alone photovoltaic system for the supply of electric loads located in remote areas not easily reachable by the low voltage distribution network. The analysis is performed by characterizing the electric load behavior by means of a Montecarlo approach for taking into account the stochastic variability of the electrical energy demand. A Montecarlo approach is used also for evaluating the electricity production of the stand alone photovoltaic system as a function of the hourly solar irradiation of the installation site. The variability both of the load and of the energy production are correlated and the probability that the load can remain uns…

A New Mathematical Approach for Faults Identification and Location in Distribution Systems

The paper presents a new methodology for fault identification and location in electrical distribution systems, based on the use of a lumped parameter representation of the faulted line and on a matrix approach. Utilities are quite interested in such items, since the new required quality standards put severe constraints on faults management and clearance.

Analisi e definizione di strategie di gestione e controllo di sistemi di accumulo elettrico per applicazioni in reti di distribuzione attive automatizzate Report 2 – Applicazioni in reti isolate e interconnesse

Il presente Report riferisce sui contenuti e sui risultati della seconda fase delle attività svolte nell’ambito della ricerca dal titolo: “Analisi e definizione di strategie di gestione e controllo di sistemi di accumulo elettrico per applicazioni in reti di distribuzione attive automatizzate”, oggetto dell’Accordo di Collaborazione tra ENEA e DIEET sottoscritto nel corso del 2011, e in relazione agli esiti della prima fase della ricerca, di cui si riferisce nel precedente Report [1]. Le attività sono state condotte in sinergia con il personale tecnico di ENEA e sono state svolte prevalentemente all’interno dei locali e dei laboratori del DIEET di Palermo. Il Report è articolato in due part…

Sviluppo, messa a punto e sperimentazione di un sistema combinato batterie al litio-ferro-fosfato/FER per applicazioni in bassa tensione. Report 2 -Test e prove di funzionamento, anche in connessione con la rete elettrica di distribuzione.

Il presente documento costituisce il report dell’attività svolta nel periodo aprile - settembre 2013 avente per oggetto: “Sviluppo, messa a punto e sperimentazione di un sistema combinato batterie al litio-ferrofosfato/FER per applicazioni in bassa tensione”. Nel corso di tale attività, sono state eseguite molteplici prove in condizioni reali di funzionamento, integrando il sistema sviluppato (comprendente il pacco-batterie al litio-ferro-fosfato per una capacità complessiva di 16 kWh e l’insieme degli apparati di interfaccia - di potenza e di segnale - di controllo e di protezione), in una rete elettrica di distribuzione di bassa tensione attualmente in esercizio, al fine di verificare spe…

Analisi e definizione di strategie di gestione e controllo di sistemi di accumulo elettrico per applicazioni in reti di distribuzione attive automatizzate Report 1 – Analisi dello stato dell’arte

Il presente Report riferisce sui contenuti e sui risultati della prima fase delle attività svolte nell’ambito della ricerca dal titolo: “Analisi e definizione di strategie di gestione e controllo di sistemi di accumulo elettrico per applicazioni in reti di distribuzione attive automatizzate”, oggetto dell’Accordo di Collaborazione tra ENEA e DIEET sottoscritto nel corso del 2011. Nel corso della prima fase delle attività, a partire da un inquadramento generale dei diversi tipi di accumulo di energia elettrica (elettrochimico, meccanico ed elettrico), è stata condotta un’analisi preliminare su metodologie, sistemi d’interfaccia e tecniche di controllo dei sistemi di accumulo, in una visione …

Sviluppo, messa a punto e sperimentazione di un sistema combinato batterie al litio-ferro-fosfato/FER per applicazioni in bassa tensione. Report 1 –Sviluppo sperimentale e perfezionamento degli apparati di controllo e comunicazione.

Il presente documento costituisce il report dell’attività svolta nel periodo ottobre 2012 – marzo 2013 avente per oggetto: “Sviluppo, messa a punto e sperimentazione di un sistema combinato batterie al litioferro-fosfato/FER per applicazioni in bassa tensione”. L’attività s’inquadra come avanzamento delle ricerche svolte nel corso di collaborazioni precedenti con lo sviluppo sperimentale e la realizzazione prototipale di un sistema di controllo ed interfaccia verso la rete di un sistema combinato di accumulo elettrico-generazione FER, della taglia di 20 kW, progettato per applicazioni in bassa tensione tali da consentire l’implementazione di funzionalità innovative improntate al modello “sm…

A Study of a large interconnection of earthing systems during an earth fault inside a MV/lv substation