Embedded wind generation in weak grids - economic optimisation and power quality simulation

A methodology which integrates different software tools for the assessment of distributed renewable energy generation, particularly wind energy, withi n a 11 kV distribution network is described in detail and is being used in a case study to study power quality issues. The methodology is based on an economic optimisation tool, which evaluates a range of different options fo r distributed generation. This output is used as a framework within which t o apply technical software tools to consider the effects on energy utilisat ion and power quality. The simulation results provide further evidence that embedded wind generation, capable of supplying active and reactive power w hen properly sized and sited can significantly improve power quality. This improvement of power quality can add important economic value to the embedd ed wind generation system. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserv ed.