Estimating Distributed Generation Reliability Level

The paper considers the reliability level of different distributed generation units. The world comparative statistics of reliability parameters depending on the unit capacity and other influencing factors are presented. The study includes an analysis of possible approaches to the correction of statistical parameters under the particular conditions. The calculation and analysis of structural reliability parameters for a group of distributed generation units is performed. It is shown that conventional N+1 reliability principle is not enough for distributed generation given a great number of operation conditions. A set of N+n principles is proposed according to the required distributed generation reliability level. Considering the reliability parameters is of great importance for the selection of installed power and the structure of distributed generation for industrial and household facilities under the design and evaluation of its technical and economic efficiency. Gradual growth of the share of distributed generation in power and energy balances of power systems raises the issue of its reliability calculation and regulation. The results obtained in the paper are also important for the maintenance, planning of repairs, and providing necessary logistics solution for the delivery of spare parts and consumables to generating plants.