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14 pages, 10784 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Valuation of Pumped Storage in Capacity Expansion Planning—A South African Case Study

by Caroline van Dongen, Bernard Bekker and Amaris Dalton

Energies 2021, 14(21), 6999; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14216999 - 26 Oct 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1821

According to South Africa’s national energy policy, network penetration of variable renewable energy (VRE) generation will significantly increase by 2030. Increased associated network uncertainty creates the need for an additional flexible generation. As the planned VRE is mostly non-synchronous PV and wind generators, [...] Read more.

According to South Africa’s national energy policy, network penetration of variable renewable energy (VRE) generation will significantly increase by 2030. Increased associated network uncertainty creates the need for an additional flexible generation. As the planned VRE is mostly non-synchronous PV and wind generators, additional ancillary services will also be required. Pumped Storage (PS), which is a well-established flexible generation technology with fast ramping capability and the ability to contribute various ancillary services, could help integrate increased VRE penetration on the South African network. However, in the latest revision of South Africa’s energy policy, PS was left out in favor of gas turbines and batteries as favored flexible generation options. This paper explores the two-part hypothesis that PS was disadvantaged in the formulation of a national energy mix due to: (a) ancillary services provided by PS not being explicitly monetized in energy modeling software; (b) the uncertainties associated with project costing assumptions. The value of PS in terms of providing ancillary services is firstly explored using the international literature. Secondly, the impact of input-cost uncertainties is demonstrated by comparing pumped storage, gas turbines, and batteries using levelized cost of energy (LCOE) curves and the Tools for Energy Model Optimization and Analysis (Temoa), North Carolina State University, USA, optimization software. Based on LCOE calculations using revised cost assumptions, it is found that PS may indeed be preferential to gas turbines or batteries, particularly at large load factors. The authors hope that this research contributes to the scientific understanding of the role that PS can play in supporting the integration of generation from renewable sources for effective grid operations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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25 pages, 5825 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Web-Based Toolkit for Performance Simulation and Analysis of Power Line Communication Networks

by Mario Sanz, José Ignacio Moreno, Gregorio López, Javier Matanza and Julio Berrocal

Energies 2021, 14(20), 6475; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14206475 - 10 Oct 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2015

Abstract

AMIs (Advanced Metering Infrastructures) present an important role in Smart City environments, especially from the point of view of distribution and customers, offering control and monitoring capabilities. The use of PLC (Power Line Communication) technology offers a wide range of advantages in AMI, [...] Read more.

AMIs (Advanced Metering Infrastructures) present an important role in Smart City environments, especially from the point of view of distribution and customers, offering control and monitoring capabilities. The use of PLC (Power Line Communication) technology offers a wide range of advantages in AMI, including not needing to deploy an additional communication infrastructure. However, the electrical network was not initially designed for communications, as these networks pose problems depending on the connected loads, such as network impedance variation, frequency selectivity or noise. For this reason, the use of simulators is proposed to facilitate the deployments based on PLC networks, and analysis and diagnosis tools for the identification of problems in operating networks are also required. This paper presents a toolkit for evaluating and analyzing the performance of PLC networks. This toolkit is composed of SimPRIME, a simulator for the evaluation of NB-PLC PRIME (PoweR line Intelligent Metering Evolution) networks’ performance; SimBPL, a simulator for the evaluation of MV-BPL (Broadband Power Line over Medium Voltage) cells’ performance; and PRIME Analytics, a forensics tool that allows diagnosis of communication problems in PRIME operational networks based on traffic traces. The toolkit has been developed throughout several research projects in close collaboration with DSOs (Distribution System Operators) and equipment manufacturers, so they provide solutions to actual problems of these industry key players and have been adapted to facilitate their use. As a result, the tools are accessible through web applications to increase their usability, portability, and scalability. These applications represent the first steps in offering PLC simulation and analysis as a service that could benefit the research community, academia, and industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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19 pages, 5565 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Probabilistic Conductor Size Selection Framework for Active Distribution Networks

by Lewis Waswa, Munyaradzi Justice Chihota and Bernard Bekker

Energies 2021, 14(19), 6387; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14196387 - 06 Oct 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1688

Abstract

With the increasing adoption of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as wind and solar photovoltaics (PV), many distribution networks have changed from passive to active. In turn, this has led to increased technical and operational challenges such as voltage issues and thermal loading [...] Read more.

With the increasing adoption of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as wind and solar photovoltaics (PV), many distribution networks have changed from passive to active. In turn, this has led to increased technical and operational challenges such as voltage issues and thermal loading in high DER penetration scenarios. These challenges have been further increased by the uncertainties arising from DER allocation. The implication of DER allocation uncertainty in the planning process is far-reaching as it affects critical planning processes, including conductor size selection (CSS). Most reported CSS methods in the literature do not include DER allocation uncertainty modeling as they are mostly deterministic and are set out as optimization problems. The methods, therefore, lack foresight on future loading conditions and cannot be used in a CSS process for feeders with high DER penetration. This paper proposes a novel input–process–output stochastic–probabilistic CSS framework for distribution feeders with DERs. The efficacy of the proposed framework is demonstrated using a low voltage feeder design case study with varying PV penetration targets, and the performance compared to deterministic–active-based estimates from our earlier work. The proposed CSS method is well-suited to the sizing of conductors for future loading conditions considering DER allocation uncertainty and will therefore be useful to planners working on new electrification projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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17 pages, 1671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evolution of Fundamental Price Determination within Electricity Market Simulations

by Lothar Wyrwoll, Moritz Nobis, Stephan Raths and Albert Moser

Energies 2021, 14(17), 5454; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14175454 - 01 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2066

Abstract

Electricity prices are the key instrument for coordinating electricity markets. For long-term market analyses, price determination based on fundamental unit commitment simulations is required. Within the European wholesale market, electricity prices result from a market clearing, which finds a welfare-optimal price–quantity tuple considering [...] Read more.

Electricity prices are the key instrument for coordinating electricity markets. For long-term market analyses, price determination based on fundamental unit commitment simulations is required. Within the European wholesale market, electricity prices result from a market clearing, which finds a welfare-optimal price–quantity tuple considering a coupling of multiple market areas with limited transmission capacity. With increasing exchange capacities in Europe, the precise modeling of the market coupling is required. Many market simulation models use multi-stage approaches with a separation of market coupling and price determination. In this paper, we analyze a new single-stage approach that combines both steps and theoretically and empirically demonstrate its precision by a backtest. For this purpose, we compare a simulated versus a historical electricity price distribution. Moreover, we explain the necessary adjustments for future regulatory developments of the European electricity market regarding flow-based market coupling and propose a concept for the application of future regulatory developments. We demonstrate further developments using a future scenario. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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17 pages, 1108 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling and Control Design Based on Petri Nets Tool for a Serial Three-Phase Five-Level Multicellular Inverter Used as a Shunt Active Power Filter

by Sana Othman, Mohamad Alaaeddin Alali, Lassaad Sbita, Jean-Pierre Barbot and Malek Ghanes

Energies 2021, 14(17), 5335; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14175335 - 27 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1733

Abstract

In this work, we represent a shunt active power filter (SAPF) based on a serial three-phase flying capacitor multilevel inverter (FCMI) controlled by a Petri Nets representation (PNs). This structure is chosen for its significant performances. In fact, the use of the FCMI [...] Read more.

In this work, we represent a shunt active power filter (SAPF) based on a serial three-phase flying capacitor multilevel inverter (FCMI) controlled by a Petri Nets representation (PNs). This structure is chosen for its significant performances. In fact, the use of the FCMI within the SAPF makes it possible to increase the apparent switching frequency of the structure in order to reduce the value then the volume and weight of the inductance of the output filter. Besides, the FCMI allows the synthesis of a high-voltage signal using low-voltage semiconductor components. Therefore, improving the reliability of this structure leads to the improvement of the dynamics of the SAPF. This paper deals with a new control methodology based on PNs to regulate the flying capacitor voltages and the reference currents issued by the instantaneous active and reactive power theory. Compared to a conventional SAPF composed by a classical two-level inverter and controlled by a simple PWM control, simulation results demonstrate that our proposed control enhances the dynamic system and the power quality by reducing the total harmonic distortion (THD) satisfying the limits of IEEE standards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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27 pages, 16240 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimized Planning of Distribution Grids Considering Grid Expansion, Battery Systems and Dynamic Curtailment

by Ouafa Laribi and Krzysztof Rudion

Energies 2021, 14(17), 5242; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14175242 - 24 Aug 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1378

Abstract

The increasing integration of renewable energies into the grid is calling for the expansion of the power transport capacities in the distribution system. Yet, the expansion of the grid could require long authorization procedures and cannot be always asserted. Therefore, a higher utilization [...] Read more.

The increasing integration of renewable energies into the grid is calling for the expansion of the power transport capacities in the distribution system. Yet, the expansion of the grid could require long authorization procedures and cannot be always asserted. Therefore, a higher utilization of the existing grid is becoming increasingly necessary today. This paper proposes a new time series-based planning method for distribution systems using classical grid expansion instruments as well as innovative planning instruments such as battery storage systems (BSS) and dynamic power curtailment (DPC). These planning instruments could be applied individually or combined. The aim of the BSS and DPC application is to enable a higher utilization of the grid at minimal costs. The proposed method, which has been implemented as an automated planning algorithm, determines the cost-optimal grid reinforcement measures that ensure the prevention of prognosticated congestions in the considered grid. Furthermore, the application of the proposed planning method on the considered power system has proven that a combination of BSS and grid expansion could be more economical than an individual application of BSS and grid expansion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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23 pages, 2212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Efficient HVAC Network Control for Safety Enhancement of a Typical Uninterrupted Power Supply Battery Storage Room

by Mpho J. Lencwe, SP Daniel Chowdhury, Sipho Mahlangu, Maxwell Sibanyoni and Louwrance Ngoma

Energies 2021, 14(16), 5155; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14165155 - 20 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2549

Abstract

Lead-acid batteries utilised in electrical substations release hydrogen and oxygen when these are charged. These gases could be dangerous and cause a risk of fire if they are not properly ventilated. Therefore, this research seeks to design and implement a network control panel [...] Read more.

Lead-acid batteries utilised in electrical substations release hydrogen and oxygen when these are charged. These gases could be dangerous and cause a risk of fire if they are not properly ventilated. Therefore, this research seeks to design and implement a network control panel for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVACS). This is achieved by using a specific range of controllers, which have more than thirty loops of proportional, integral, and derivative (PID) control to achieve a cost-effective design. It performs the required function of extracting hydrogen and oxygen, maintaining the desired temperature of the battery storage room within recommended limits (i.e., 25 ± 1 °C tolerance) without compromising quality, as set out in the user requirement specification. The system control panel allows the user to access control parameters such as changing temperature set-points, fan-speed, sensor database, etc. It does this automatically and allows no human interface after all necessary settings and installation are completed. The hardware is configured to detect extreme hydrogen and oxygen gas content in the battery room and to ensure that the HVACS extracts the gas content to the outside environment. The system’s results show that the network control panel operates effectively as per the recommended system requirements. Therefore, the effective operation of the HVACS ensures sufficient gas ventilation, thus mitigating the risk of fire in a typical battery storage room. Furthermore, this also enhances battery lifespan because of regulated operating temperature, which is conducive to minimise the effect of sulfation in lead–acid batteries (LAB). The extraction of toxic gases, regulation of temperature, ensuring suitable humidity in UPS battery room is important as it provides longer operational service of equipment, thus reducing frequent maintenance in these rooms. This benefits the electricity supply industry and helps in saving for unplanned maintenance costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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23 pages, 935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Power Maximization and Turbulence Intensity Management through Axial Induction-Based Optimization and Efficient Static Turbine Deployment

by Mfon Charles, David T. O. Oyedokun and Mqhele Dlodlo

Energies 2021, 14(16), 4943; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14164943 - 12 Aug 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1367

Abstract

Layout optimization is capable of increasing turbine density and reducing wake effects in wind plants. However, such optimized layouts do not guarantee fixed T-2-T distances in any direction and would be disadvantageous if reduction in computational costs due to turbine set-point updates is [...] Read more.

Layout optimization is capable of increasing turbine density and reducing wake effects in wind plants. However, such optimized layouts do not guarantee fixed T-2-T distances in any direction and would be disadvantageous if reduction in computational costs due to turbine set-point updates is also a priority. Regular turbine layouts are considered basic because turbine coordinates can be determined intuitively without the application of any optimization algorithms. However, such layouts can be used to intentionally create directions of large T-2-T distances, hence, achieve the gains of standard/non-optimized operations in these directions, while also having close T-2-T distances in other directions from which the gains of optimized operations can be enjoyed. In this study, a regular hexagonal turbine layout is used to deploy turbines within a fixed area dimension, and a turbulence intensity-constrained axial induction-based plant-wide optimization is carried out using particle swarm, artificial bee colony, and differential evolution optimization techniques. Optimized plant power for three close turbine deployments (4D, 5D, and 6D) are compared to a non-optimized 7D deployment using three mean wind inflows. Results suggest that a plant power increase of up to 37% is possible with a 4D deployment, with this increment decreasing as deployment distance increases and as mean wind inflow increases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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22 pages, 5304 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Ecosystem View of Peer-to-Peer Electricity Trading: Scenario Building by Business Model Matrix to Identify New Roles

by Mehdi Montakhabi, Fairouz Zobiri, Shenja van der Graaf, Geert Deconinck, Domenico Orlando, Pieter Ballon and Mustafa A. Mustafa

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4438; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154438 - 22 Jul 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2790

Abstract

This article introduces new roles in future peer-to-peer electricity trading markets. Following a qualitative approach, firstly, the value network of the current electricity market is presented. To do so, service streams, critical roles, activities, and their setting in the electricity market are identified. [...] Read more.

This article introduces new roles in future peer-to-peer electricity trading markets. Following a qualitative approach, firstly, the value network of the current electricity market is presented. To do so, service streams, critical roles, activities, and their setting in the electricity market are identified. Secondly, in order to identify the main sources of uncertainty, the business model matrix framework is utilized to analyze peer-to-peer electricity trading. Thirdly, four future scenarios are built based on user involvement and customer ownership. The outcome of the scenario building is the emergence of new roles, brokers, and representatives in the future peer-to-peer electricity markets. Fourth, based on the four future scenarios, changes in the value network, new roles, and emerging/evolving activities are identified. Finally, the two new roles are discussed from grid structure, security and privacy, legal, and data protection perspectives. The data is gathered by conducting semi-structured interviews with stakeholders in the current electricity market as well as potential disruptors. This article elaborates on the configuration of the value network in the electricity market and highlights the changes that peer-to-peer trading imposes to the status quo. Through the outcomes of the value network analysis, it assists policy makers to consider the requirements and current market players to reconsider their business models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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14 pages, 3116 KiB

Open AccessConference Report

A Model to Improve the Effectiveness and Energy Consumption to Address the Routing Problem for Cognitive Radio Ad Hoc Networks by Utilizing an Optimized Cuckoo Search Algorithm

by Ramahlapane Lerato Moila and Mthulisi Velempini

Energies 2021, 14(12), 3464; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14123464 - 11 Jun 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1730

Abstract

A cognitive radio ad hoc network (CRAHN) is a mobile network that can communicate without any form of centralized infrastructure. The nodes can learn about the environment and make routing decisions. Furthermore, distributed computing, spectrum mobility, and the Internet of Things have created [...] Read more.

A cognitive radio ad hoc network (CRAHN) is a mobile network that can communicate without any form of centralized infrastructure. The nodes can learn about the environment and make routing decisions. Furthermore, distributed computing, spectrum mobility, and the Internet of Things have created large data sets, which require more spectrum for data transmission. Unfortunately, the spectrum is a scarce resource that underutilized by licensed users, while unlicensed users are overcrowding the free spectrum. The CRAHNs technology has emerged as a promising solution to the underutilization of the spectrum. The focus of this study is to improve the effectiveness and energy consumption of routing in order to address the routing problem of CRAHNs through the implementation of the optimized cuckoo search algorithm. In CRAHNs, the node and spectrum mobility cause some frequent link breakages within the network, which degrades the performance of the routing protocols. This requires a routing solution to this routing problem. The proposed scheme was implemented in NS2 installed in Linux operating system, with a cognitive radio cognitive network (CRCN) patch. From the experimental results, we observed that the proposed OCS-AODV scheme outperformed CS-DSDV and ACO-AODV schemes. It obtained at least 3.87% packet delivery ratio and 2.56% and lower packets lost. The scheme enabled the mobile nodes to adjust accordingly to minimize energy consumption. If not busy, they switch to an idle state to save battery power. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ENERGYCON 2020 Conference)

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