Efficient operation and control of Smart Grids with distributed power generation    

Large scale integration of renewable distributed generation into the power grid has significant potential to both reduce carbon dioxide emissions and provide secure and resilient power. The current UK grid is largely a one way system with power generated in large power stations and distributed through transmission and distribution lines, with no storage capability. The current system requires power generators to provide excess generation capacity to meet peak demands. The alternative is to develop smart grid systems which integrate power generation with the grid and with consumers through an intelligent communication system. Advanced and unique facilities based at the University of Birmingham – funded by Advantage West Midlands (AWM) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the Birmingham Science City initiative - are being used to further the understanding of the operation, control and management of smart grid systems powered by energy from distributed sources.  

 The facilities comprise of the following key pieces of equipment:   

• A smart power grid and real-time simulator that provides the capability to realistically simulate smart power grids with the integration of distributed power generation including wind, wave and fuel cell generation systems. 
• Monitoring and control capability as well as real-time information integration, monitoring, protection and closed-loop control functions.

 The laboratory can be used for research on:    

• Operation and control methods for power grids;
• Control techniques for distributed energy generation and interconnection;
• Controllers and protection devices and algorithms for individual components; and
• Technical barriers to the integration of renewable energy generated from distributed sources in to the power grid.

This research facility is led by Dr Xiao-Ping Zhang, Reader in energy distribution systems at the University of Birmingham. His expertise is wide-ranging including: application of power electronics such as FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission System) and CUSTOM POWER in transmission and distribution systems; technologies for smart grids; power system economics; large scale power system optimisation and planning; analysis and control of power system stability; power quality and harmonics; integration of distributed generation (embedded generation) into electrical power systems; and micro-generation and micro-grids. Already working with companies such as E.ON, ABB, Areva, Dr Zhang is keen to develop new partnerships, particularly with local businesses from the West Midlands region.

For further information, including proposals for collaboration or access to the facilities:

Dr Xiao-Ping Zhang, School of Electronic, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT. Email: x.p.zhang@bham.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0) 121 414 4298  

or Mike Ahearne, Business Engagement Manager for the Birmingham Science City Energy Efficiency & Demand project. Email: m.ahearne@warwick.ac.uk Mobile tel: +44 (0)7824 541173