Dynamic Microgrid-based Operations: A New Operational Paradigm for Distribution Networks

This paper expands the conventional concept of microgrids - predetermined groups of loads and generators electrically connected to each other and possibly to the main power grid - into a new concept of dynamic microgrids (DMs) which allows different groupings of these resources based on actual real time supply and demand conditions in the network. Under the DM paradigm, the distribution network is continuously partitioned into dynamically changing microgrid cells which can be leveraged to improve the operational performance of distribution networks. The paper describes algorithms to define DMs based on real time conditions and also proposes a DM-based operational strategy wherein DMs operate in tandem during normal operations and can function as islands during faults to minimize customer interruptions. Simulations on standard test systems are used to demonstrate how such a strategy can be leveraged to minimize the impact of disturbances on customers, maximize the deployment of renewable generation and improve asset utilization.