EVOLUTION OF CONCEPTS OF ACTIVE AND FLEXIBLE DISTRIBUTION ELECTRIC NETWORKS IN THE CONTEXT OF DECENTRALIZED GENERATION

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to identify structural changes in the functioning of distribution electric networks under the influence of decentralized generation and digital control systems. The research focuses on analyzing mechanisms for integrating distributed energy sources, energy storage systems, and transport batteries into the structure of distribution energy nodes. Particular attention is given to the interaction of generation, consumption, and storage within local energy systems that form a new configuration of electricity flows. The research methodology is based on a comparative analysis of operational indicators of energy nodes with different types of distributed resources. The study applies a structural analysis approach to energy flows, mathematical models for active power balance, and methods for evaluating the efficiency of digital control systems. The research considers the generation parameters of photovoltaic and wind installations, the characteristics of battery storage systems, and the potential of bidirectional interaction between transport batteries and the grid. The analysis uses indicators of power balance, grid flexibility indices, and coefficients of local energy exchange. The results show that the integration of distributed generation sources changes the topology of energy flows in distribution networks. Generation shifts closer to consumption nodes, which reduces the load on transmission lines. At the same time, operational network management becomes more complex. The use of battery storage systems and transport batteries increases the ability of the network to compensate for fluctuations in electricity production. Digital control platforms process data from sensor infrastructure and generate algorithms for optimizing generation and storage operating modes. The application of power electronics technologies improves voltage stability and reduces energy losses in distribution lines. The practical significance of the results lies in developing approaches for modernizing distribution electric networks with a high share of distributed resources. The obtained results can be used by network operators to optimize power balancing regimes, plan the integration of storage systems, and implement digital management platforms. The proposed analytical approach contributes to improving the flexibility, stability, and reliability of distribution energy systems.