An active distribution network model for smart grid control and protection studies—Model validation progress

Abstract

This paper presents the implementation of an Active Distribution Network (ADN) model and its qualitative assessment using different off-line and real-time simulation tools. The objective is to provide software-to-software verification for the establishment of the model as a potential benchmark. Expanding upon the authors' previous work [7], this paper provides additional simulation results, cross-examination of the models, and presents the latest modifications incorporated to address practical considerations. The ADN has multiple voltage levels and features various types of distributed energy resources including solar, wind generators, and storage. It further incorporates control and protection schemes for distributed energy resource units and loads; hence, it adequately represents the complex dynamics of an active distribution grid compared to the existing distribution grid test cases in the literature. As such, the test system can be used by other researchers to test numerical methods and conduct research on Smart Grid control, protection, and dynamic studies.