How to evaluate energy storage in distribution system planning?

In distribution system planning, evaluating energy storage requires modeling and assessment of its operational characteristics and value streams. However, due to its complexity and relatively nascent nature, accurately modeling and characterizing the opportunities provided by energy storage remains challenging.

What is distribution system planning with distributed energy resources?

Distribution system planning involving distributed energy resources (DERs) is a broad subject with many facets. This report focuses on assessing the capability of current planning tools and methods to identify needed system requirements for reliable and effective operations with DERs.

What is electric distribution system planning?

Electric distribution system planning refers to the process of supporting investment decisions and operations strategies for the electric power grid. It is a broad subject with many facets. The increasing number of distributed energy resources (DERs) connected to the grid is changing how utilities perform the distribution planning process.

Can transactive energy be used in distribution system planning?

Although a few successful transactive energy pilot projects have been completed, for transactive energy to be considered in distribution system planning, tools for modeling need to mature and develop to effectively incorporate it.

Should energy storage systems be integrated in a distribution network?

Introducing energy storage systems (ESSs) in the network provide another possible approach to solve the above problems by stabilizing voltage and frequency. Therefore, it is essential to allocate distributed ESSs optimally on the distribution network to fully exploit their advantages.

What is integrated distribution system planning?

Integrated distribution system planning with DERs addresses the costs and benefits of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs). It is integrated with resource and transmission planning, and can support the evaluation of deferring traditional infrastructure investments.