Optimal DER Scheduling for Frequency Stability Study

Summary

This study will investigate how to optimally schedule distributed energy resources (DER) to provide low-cost frequency stability services within distribution network constraints and while respecting the motivations and primary functionality desired by DER owners (i.e. reduced cost, independence etc.)

How the project works

The project will develop and test software to coordinate fleets of DER on electricity networks, enabling them to provide frequency control ancillary services (FCAS) and system stability functionalities currently provided by conventional generators. In partnership with the Australian National University and TasNetworks, the project will model the frequency response characteristics of DER and will resolve optimal power dispatch from DER within network limitations and with reserve capacity targets in place.

Area of innovation

Conventional synchronous generation such as traditional coal fired plants are currently relied on for frequency stability. DER such as power-electronics driven energy generation, battery storage and electrical loads are potential alternatives. However, effective and optimal coordination of these resources is highly complex, and no established or proven methods currently exist. The primary innovation of this project is to develop and demonstrate such a method.

Benefit

This project will improve knowledge on the frequency stability services that network hosted DER can provide. It aims to show how distributed optimisation algorithms can schedule DER and provide a desired level of frequency-reserve while operating within network constraints. The project will investigate the settings needed to enable DER to provide frequency reserve, and will provide guidance about how DER should interact with existing market structures to enable effective use.