Optimal infrastructure for seamless integration of distributed generation - OiDG

Following the visions and strategies stated in the European SmartGrids2 Technology Platform as well as in the Norwegian energy sector strategy - Energi21 , seamless connection and integration of distributed generation (DG) into medium voltage (MV) and low voltage (LV) networks is one of the objectives for realization of an energy system for the 21st century. Starting from a network that has been developed over many years mainly to support a one - directional power and energy flow from generation through t ransmission and distribution to consumers, transition to a new technology platform presents a whole range of opportunities and challenges. The Norwegian MV/LV grid has been developed over many years and is an ageing infrastructure. Renewal is rather slow and tends to be postponed for various reasons. An increasing share of distributed generation will bring new initiatives and new ideas into this field. Considering the widespread existing infrastructure and the large amount already invested in this infras tructure it is evident that it is very important to find a technical feasible and economic viable transition path from the current network to the future grid. It is also evident that this transition must comply with the current emphasis on environmental i ssues and renewable resources. Transition to a new MV/LV grid should allow for integration of distributed generation simultaneously with development of the new grid. Therefore, the proposed project attempts to recommend how distributed generation can be connected to the present network as well as how it should be done in a proposed new network architecture in a seamless way, i.e. with a minimum of connection and operation problems.