Distributed generation in future grids - Will energy islands become a reality?

Johan Driesen, Ronnie Belmans, KULeuven - ESAT / Electa

April 2004

DG systems (photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, domestic CHPs…) produce a relatively small amount of electrical energy from a locally available, often renewable, energy source. Several international research projects are currently investigating the limits for connecting these systems to the distribution grid. If many DG systems are connected, a higher level of control system seems inevitable. The energy flow on cables becomes bidirectional, requiring a more complicated protection concept. Since DG systems make widespread use of power electronics and often rely on resources with limited predictability, power quality and reliability are key issues. The authors plead for keeping up the reliability of supply since our society heavily depends on it. They indicate however that some experts rather favour energy islands and question the actual reliability standards.