Increasing Distributed Generation Penetration Using Network Reconfiguration and Soft Open Points

High penetration levels of distributed generation (DG) become new challenges for traditional electrical distribution networks. The increase of DG penetration can be facilitated by means of Network Reconfiguration (NR) and Soft Open Point (SOP). SOP is a power electronic device installed between adjacent feeders of a distribution network, with the capability to control real and reactive power flows through its connecting points. This paper explores the maximum DG penetration level that distribution network can accommodate before violating any operational constraints using three approaches: NR, SOP, and a combined method using NR to coordinate with SOP operation. The impacts of DG concentrations and SOP locations on achievable DG penetration levels are analysed. The effectiveness of the proposed approaches and the significant benefits obtained by using the combination of NR and SOP are demonstrated on a 33-bus distribution network.