IoT-Enabled Real-Time Voltage Management for Active Distribution Networks

Abstract

The modern electric grid faces numerous challenges from increasing integration of distributed generation, particularly in low-voltage distribution networks. As these networks transition from passive to active distribution networks (ADNs), managing voltage fluctuations caused by intermittent renewable energy sources becomes critical. Traditional voltage control methods, such as shunt capacitor banks and on-load tap changers, struggle to handle the dynamic and unpredictable nature of these fluctuations due to their inherent limitations in response speed and flexibility. This paper proposes a distributed online voltage control strategy based on the internet of things (IoT) that utilizes real-time data exchange and distributed decision-making to regulate voltage in ADNs. By leveraging weighted voltage sensitivity-based consensus algorithm, this approach ensures effective coordination of distributed energy resources, optimizing the balance between active and reactive power and minimizing power curtailments. The distributed IoT-based control offers a scalable, adaptable, and cost-effective solution for real-time voltage management, addressing communication delays, and network reconfigurations.