Flexibility market and services in distribution grid

Abstract

The incorporation of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) is growing in many power systems globally. This incorporation presents a significant challenge to the maintenance and service of new power systems, leading to a growing need for proactive distribution network services. Congestion is an issue that is rapidly emerging in distribution grids due to the upward increase penetration of DG in distribution systems. The DSOs are also obligated to evaluate and enhance their maintenance costs by implementing smart grid features and functions to minimize investment. Out of a variety of solutions, congestion control is amongst the most optimistic methods for solving network problems. Congestion control systems have historically been handled at the level of the transmission grid. However, with the extensive utilization of Distributed Generators (DGs) and the anticipated extreme loading conditions, the control technique would have to be extended to the distribution network also. Methods for controlling congestion in distribution systems have recently gained the attention of academics and others operating in the electric grid domain. A variety of techniques are being extensively explored to overcome the complexities of direct switching behaviour. However, non-market-based interventions wouldn't be the most successful and cost-effective option. Besides that, smart strategies that harness the flexibilities of users need to be built to leverage existing grid infrastructure effectively. Flexibility services can enable network operators to always resolve grid restrictions, sustain stability and quality of service, and optimize the integration of distributed power sources. The implementation of a local flexibility market (LFM) would enable flexible trade to be carried out by both processing and consumption units at the distribution stage, ensuring access to markets to DERs, a Distribution System Operators Support Tool (DSOs), and a valuable source for energy providers. The concept of the study is to resolve congestion in distribution systems through market processes, particularly the local flexibility market. This study provides a detailed analysis of four pioneering scalable business projects: Piclo Flex, Enera, GOPACS, and NODES. Attempts have been devoted to present a comprehensive summary of market architecture, which includes the framework, participation, placing bids, and clearing processes, of the local flexibility market initiatives produced in recent years. However, system operators need to cooperate for ensuring reliable, consistent, and cost-effective utilization of scalable facilities, since these tools can theoretically be used both locally and throughout the grid. This paper gives a comprehensive overview of synchronization schemes in power networks between transmission & distribution power grid, with a specific focus on the implementation of balancing as well as congestion control services.