Power networks have to withstand a variety of disturbances that affect system frequency, and the problem is compounded with the increasing integration of intermittent renewable generation. Following a large-signal generation or load disturbance, system frequency is arrested leveraging primary frequency control provided by governor action in synchronous generators. In this work, we propose a framework for distributed energy resources (DERs) deployed in distribution networks to provide (supplemental) primary frequency response. Particularly, we demonstrate how power-frequency droop slopes for individual DERs can be designed so that the distribution feeder presents a guaranteed frequency-regulation characteristic at the feeder head. Furthermore, the droop slopes are engineered such that injections of individual DERs conform to a well-defined fairness objective that does not penalize them for their location on the distribution feeder. Time-domain simulations for an illustrative network composed of a combined transmission network and distribution network with frequency-responsive DERs are provided to validate the approach.

Scheduling and Operation of Virtual Power Plants: Technical Challenges and Electricity Markets provides a multidisciplinary perspective on recent advances in VPPs, ranging from required infrastructures and planning to operation and control. The work details the required components in a virtual power plant, including smartness of power system, instrument and information and communication technologies (ICTs), measurement units, and distributed energy sources. Contributors assess the proposed benefits of virtual power plant in solving problems of distributed energy sources in integrating the small, distributed and intermittent output of these units. In addition, they investigate the likely technical challenges regarding control and interaction with other entities. Finally, the work considers the role of VPPs in electricity markets, showing how distributed energy resources and demand response providers can integrate their resources through virtual power plant concepts to effectively participate in electricity markets to solve the issues of small capacity and intermittency. The work is suitable for experienced engineers, researchers, managers and policymakers interested in using VPPs in future smart grids. Explores key enabling technologies and infrastructures for virtual power plants in future smart energy systems Reviews technical challenges and introduces solutions to the operation and control of VPPs, particularly focusing on control and interaction with other power system entities Introduces the key integrating role of VPPs in enabling DER powered participative electricity markets

This book focuses on the business operation of virtual power plants. Both of the business models and reliable operation of virtual power plants have been addressed with engineering practices. This is achieved by providing an in-depth study on several major topics such as load forecasting for distributed energy resources, business model and practice of virtual power plants, the business operation of virtual power plants participating in demand response, and auxiliary service market. The dynamic pricing strategy of virtual power plants and reliable operation of power systems with virtual power plants are provided as well. The comprehensive and systematic treatment in business operation of virtual power plants is one of the major features of the book, which is particularly suited for readers who are interested to learn operation mechanisms of virtual power plants. The book benefits researchers, engineers, and graduate students in the fields of energy internet, electrical engineering, and business administration, etc.

Variable Generation, Flexible Demand looks at a future in which power system researchers, operators and analysts need to predict variable renewable generation and schedule demand to match it. Contributors survey the significant expansion in the role of flexible demand in balancing supply and demand in conjunction with flexible generation in ‘peaking plants’ and energy storage as the proportion of variable renewable generation rises in many systems across the world. Supported with case studies, the book examines practical ways that demand flexibility can play a constructive role as more systems move towards higher levels of renewable generation in their electricity mix. Examines practical ways that demand flexibility can play a constructive role in future energy systems Reviews the vital role of market design, business models, enabling technologies, policies and regulation in implementation of flexible demand Includes detailed case studies that address the role of flexible demand across transitioning power markets