DER and Grid Integration

Supervisors

Prof. Peta Ashworth

Dr Dean Economou

The project

Large-scale deployment of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) is critical to the success of Net Zero Precincts (NZP). From a grid perspective however, high penetration of DER in any one location of the distribution network creates challenges for local grid stability. This has generated a lot of discussion and research on the the hosting capacity of distribution networks. Distribution network infrastructure is traditionally designed or sized to serve the maximum demand expected in a local area. Because the demand profile of a NZP is different from a non-NZP, it may be possible to unlock more hosting capacity from the local distribution network by recognising the differentiated demand profile of NZP. This would help save costs by deferring network augmentation, optimising the utilisation of existing infrastructure, and supporting NZP developers and users to integrate more DER.

This research proposes to study whether a Net Zero Precinct (NZP) participating in the RACE program places a differential demand on the local distribution network infrastructure when compared to a non – NZP load. The research will attempt to model the demand profile of different types of NZP (residential, mixed-use, light industrial) and compare it to Western Power’s methodology to determine maximum demand in the local area.

Associated qualitative data will also be collected from NZP developers who have engaged with Western Power to determine the acceptable size and rating of the DER in the NZP.