Electric Power Distribution, Utilization and Smart Grids

Module SMART GRIDS

The Second Module (SG) of the Course aims to provide insights into electric distribution networks' structures, functions, analysis methods, as well as control, automation and protection criteria for MV and LV public networks. The study is focused on both "traditional" and "advanced" networks, i.e. according to the innovative paradigm of "Smart Grids", mainly aimed to the integration of distributed generation systems from renewable energy sources and energy storage systems (as well as of charging infrastructures for Electric Vehicles), the active involvements of prosumers and passive final Users, the optimization of operation and interaction between Transmission and Distribution Networks, with a specific view to Sustainable Development and System Decarbonization.

Knowledge of Electrotechnics, with specific reference to the laws relating to electric and electromagnetic fields, the analysis of radial and meshed electrical circuits in direct and alternating sinusoidal current, in steady state and transient regimes, as well as to the operation of Electrical Power Systems, both single-phase and three-phase systems (symmetrical and balanced or not).

Knowledge of the main Electrical Machines (Power Transformers, Synchronous and Asynchronous Machines and Power Electronic Converters) and their operating principles and basic modelling.

Knowledge acquired through the First Module ("Electric Power Distribution and Utilization") of the Course. 

Basic notions relating to Electricity Markets.

Attending the Course is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended, as the Course includes, in addition to theoretical lessons, participatory numerical exercises and group activities, including technical visits.

0. Introduction to the Course’s Topics.

Concepts of "traditional” passive electricity distribution networks and their evolution towards Smart Grids in the Electrical Power System (EPS); topics related to energy transition and “decarbonization”.

Presentation of the PAN (Puglia Active Networks) Project, lasting 2014-2024, winner of the NER300 tender announced by the European Community, which creates in Puglia the first "smart" region in Italy and the world (source e-distribuzione SpA).

1) International overview of distribution network structures for medium and low voltage public systems (MV and LV).

Meshed, ring, radial and radially operated mesh networks; reconfigurability for maintenance and failure cases, possibility of counter-supplying electrical lines.

2) Basic notions on the advantages of remote control of network’s components compared to manual operation.

Standard CEI EN 50160: "Voltage Characteristics of electricity supplied by public distribution networks". Service Continuity and requirements’ evolution of the national Authority (ARERA).

3) General calculation method for short-circuits “close to generators” in meshed and unbalanced networks.

Analysis of phase-to-ground (PTG), two-phase and three-phase faults, with and without earth connection.

4) Neutral grounding in three-phase networks and influence on PTG Faults.

PTG’s effects analysis.Directional Earth Protections against PTG Faults.

5) HV/MV Primary Substation (PS): structure and digitalization for Smart Grids implementation and management. The concept of “extended PS” (provided and implemented by e-distribuzione SpA) .

6) Protection of "traditional" passive and radial MV and LV distribution networks (e-distribuzione SpA).

Overload, multi-phase short-circuit and PTG fualt protections on feeders supplied by a PS; Distribution Hub; Secondary Substation (SS), LV networks and Civil Users. Example of discrimination between the different protection devices.

7) First implementation of Automation procedures (FRG and FNC) in MV distribution networks operated by e-distribuzione SpA.

8) Effect on Distributed Generation on Transmission and Distribution networks.

9) Secondary Substation (SS): Structure, Components, Connection rules for active and passive MV Users (CEI 0-16).

10) Voltage Regulation Criteria in traditional MV and LV distribution networks introduced by ENEL Distribuzione SpA.

11) Advanced Voltage Regulation Criteria in Smart Grids managed by e-Distribuzione SpA.

12) Advanced remote control, protection and automation criteria in the Smart Grids managed by e-Distribuzione SpA.

13) Overview of the different Innovative Paradigms linked to the Smart Grid concept.

1) Technical Publications and Reports written by professionals in the International Electricity Eector (in English).

2) Teaching material provided by the professor (in Italian and in English).

3) CEI, CENELEC and IEC Standards (in Italian and in English).

4) Marconato, "Electric Power Systems", Vol. I e II, published by CEI (Italian Electrotechnical Committee) - In English.

Learning assessment is usually carried out by an oral exam in presence, 

but it might also be carried out remotely, should extreme conditions required it.

Unidentifiable.