Optimal management of an electric storage system with multiple network connection points

Active Distribution Networks (ADNs), which are distribution networks with high presence of Distributed Generation (DG) — in particular from Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) — represent a challenge for Distributed System Operators (DSOs). In recent years, the installation of Electrical Storage Systems (ESSs) managed by the DSO is under investigation as a possible option for increasing the flexibility of network operation, enhancing the Power Quality, improving voltage profiles and managing energy losses. The optimization of the connection point in the planning phase (i.e. seasonally, weekly…), obtained through an objective function minimizing network losses under voltage and current constraints, is fundamental for these resources and represents a further option to increase their effectiveness. The paper discusses the definition of a proper metric to rank the different connection points. Besides, it describes a related automatic procedure implemented in an Italian network in order to show the advantage of the methodology.