Optimum Reserve Estimation in Micro-Grids containing Renewable Distributed Generation Resources

Background/Objectives: The increased application of renewable resources in new distribution networks which are known as micro-grids, have caused challenges in utilizing such resources. This is mainly due to the uncertainty and probabilistic behavior of output power of renewable resources. Methods/Statistical Analysis: In this research, a novel stochastic method is proposed for estimating the required Spinning Reserve in a micro-grid containing renewable generation resources. As the amount of intended reserve increases, the cost of load supplying will increase while the outage penalty will decrease. Results: In this study, the amount of Spinning Reserve is determined based on balancing between the reliability cost and the cost of reserve supply. The uncertainty associated with loads, units and renewable resources is considered in this estimation. Another advantage of the proposed method is reduction of calculations due to the fact that different uncertainties will be summed together. The Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) optimization problem is solved by means of Baron/GAMS algorithm. The introduced method is applied to an illustrative test system as well as IEEE 30-bus. Conclusion/Application: The test results illustrate the effectiveness of proposed method from the cost reduction and secure operation perspective.