Fitting distributed generation in future power markets through virtual power plants

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a scalable virtual power plant system that fits in the deregulated power markets while benefiting from the Systems Engineering methodology. As this system facilitates energy trade, balancing and network support, it complies with the requirements of future active distribution grids and interests of the emerging active power users and producers. The technical conditions to embed large concentrations of distributed energy resources and other functions of this system are discussed while focusing on the benefits for the system stakeholders. This paper ends up with the business case of the virtual power plant and an overview of relevant conclusions.