A Hierarchical Framework for Day-Ahead Optimal Operation Planning of Active Distribution Networks with Multi-Microgrids

The insertion of new distributed energy resources, such as distributed generation (DG), energy storage systems (ESS), demand response (DR), and microgrids (MG), is emerging, bringing new challenges to the current distribution network. In this regard, the active distribution networks (ADN) with multi-microgrids concept appears. The present paper proposes a hierarchical (master-slave problem) computational model to achieve optimal coordinated operation of multi-microgrids connected to an ADN. Day-ahead operation planning of an ADN was formulated as a multiperiod non-linear optimal power flow model, resulting in a non-linear optimization problem, additionally, the day-ahead operation planning of MGs was formulated as a multiperiod linearized optimal power flow resulting in a mixed-integer linear optimization problem. Numerical results on four different test-system microgrids connected to a 359-nodes ADNs test-system belonging to a Brazilian distribution company show the effectiveness of the proposed model and solution strategy. Three cases have been tested: with a maximum load-shedding restriction, without this restriction, and considering insertion of DG. Besides, the hierarchical model can evaluate how much losses and load shedding take effect without integrated operation and expansion planning of emerging distributed networks. This study showed the importance of analyzing the systemic impact of integrating multi-MGs and ADN synergistic operation interactions, resulting in improvements in the voltage quality levels, operation costs, and power losses. The results showed that, including DG in the system, the costs were reduced by 13,48% compared to the case base.