Active Network Management Integration in Expansion Planning of Active Distribution Networks: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the recent advancements in active distribution network expansion planning, focusing on the integration of active network management technologies and services. The transition from passive to active distribution networks is driven by the proliferation of distributed energy resources such as renewable and non-renewable distributed generation, energy storage systems, and demand response, which necessitate new planning and operational paradigms. The active distribution network expansion planning models must account for the stochastic and dynamic nature of distributed energy resources, requiring multi-objective, multi-stage, and hierarchical optimization approaches. The paper analyzes over 50 articles published since 2014, categorizing them based on planning horizons, distributed energy resources integration, solution methods, uncertainty handling techniques, and reliability metrics. Active network management technologies such as dynamic thermal rating, reactive power control, and coordinated voltage control are explored in depth. The review highlights how these technologies enable more flexible and cost-effective grid expansion by accommodating more distributed energy resources and reducing infrastructure investment needs but also reveals recurring gaps related to multi-actor coordination, service-based flexibility procurement, and the omission of active network management implementation costs. This work serves as a vital resource for researchers and utility planners in selecting appropriate active network management strategies and optimization techniques for active distribution networks.