Utilizing Energy Storage for Reliability Solutions in Active Distribution Systems

Stochastic failures in a distribution network result in different reliability events, such as voltage sags and momentary and sustained interruptions, causing significant financial losses for many customers. Strategic utilization of energy storage system (ESS) can help mitigate these reliability events. This paper investigates the role of ESS toward providing reliability solutions in the context of an active distribution system. In this regard, scenario-based probabilistic modeling of reliability event mitigation with the ESS is presented, which is integrated into the reliability evaluation framework. The proposed approach is efficient in assessing reliability solutions with ESS considering storage technology type, power/energy rating, hardware availability, presence of other distributed energy resources, etc. A range of case studies is conducted to evaluate mitigation of reliability events at a different level of the distribution system. Valuable insights into the efficient utilization of ESS are provided based on findings.