Electrical energy storage in Smart Grid: Black-start study using a real-time digital simulator

The future development of modern electrical systems must to evolve towards Smart Grids. The Smart Grids context involves several players and automation functions, such as Distributed Generators with their related controls, Intelligent Load Management, Smart Metering, infrastructures for Electric Mobility, Energy Storage, etc. In particular an Energy Storage system favors the connection of renewable generators and can improve the network stability. Moreover it can be used to energize a portion of a grid in islanding operation in case of loss of mains. This function is so-called black-start. This paper analyzes the new Energy Storage system installed by Enel Distribuzione S.p.A. in the center of Italy into the “Isernia Pilot Project” on Smart Grids, for the operation in black-start mode. The study is performed using the RTDS real-time digital simulator, in order to qualify the best way to perform the blackstart.