Coordinating Control Devices and Smart Inverter Functionalities in the Presence of Variable Weather Conditions

Nowadays, distribution planning and operations engineers are gradually considering the use of smart inverters to plan and operate the network in a seamless approach. Smart inverters have the capability of maintaining the distribution system integrity if it is optimally configured with the existing distribution system control device(s). This paper describes the results of combining traditional distribution system Integrated Volt-Var Control (IVVC) with varying smart inverter control functionalities to regulate feeder voltages, reduce line regulator tap operations; while optimizing system losses. The aim of this project was to check the operational impacts of several distribution system control devices with high penetration of connected residential roof -top PVs with smart inverters.