Electricity

This study evaluates and compares centralized and distributed reactive power compensation strategies using Static Var Compensators (SVCs) to enhance the performance of a high-voltage transmission system in the Caribbean region of Colombia. The methodology comprises four stages: system characterization, assessment of the uncompensated condition under peak demand, definition of four SVC-based scenarios, and steady-state analysis through power flow simulations using DIgSILENT PowerFactory. SVCs were modeled as Thyristor-Controlled Devices (“SVC Type 1”) operating as PV nodes for voltage regulation. The evaluated scenarios include centralized SVCs at the Slack node, node N4, and node N20, as well as a distributed scheme across load nodes N51 to N55. Node selection was guided by power flow analysis, identifying voltage drops below 0.9 pu and overloads above 125%. Technically, the distributed strategy outperformed the centralized alternatives, reducing active power losses by 37.5%, reactive power exchange by 46.1%, and improving node voltages from 0.71 pu to values above 0.92 pu while requiring only 437 MVAr of compensation compared to 600 MVAr in centralized cases. Economically, the distributed configuration achieved the highest annual energy savings (36 GWh), the greatest financial return (USD 5.94 M/year), and the shortest payback period (7.4 years), highlighting its cost-effectiveness. This study’s novelty lies in its system-level comparison of SVC deployment strategies under real operating constraints. The results demonstrate that distributed compensation not only improves technical performance but also provides a financially viable solution for enhancing grid reliability in infrastructure-limited transmission systems. Full article

The optimal integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems and distribution static synchronous compensators (D-STATCOMs) in electrical distribution networks is important to reduce their operating costs, improve their voltage profiles, and enhance their power quality. To this effect, this paper proposes a mixed-integer convex (MI-Convex) optimization model for the optimal siting and sizing of PV systems and D-STATCOMs, with the aim of minimizing investment and operating costs in electrical distribution networks. The proposed model transforms the traditional mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) formulation into a convex model through second-order conic relaxation of the nodal voltage product. This model ensures global optimality and computational efficiency, which is not achieved using traditional heuristic-based approaches. The proposed model is validated on IEEE 33- and 69-bus test systems, showing a significant reduction in operating costs in both feeders compared to traditional heuristic-based approaches such as the vortex search algorithm (VSA), the sine-cosine algorithm (SCA), and the sech-tanh optimization algorithm (STOA). According to the results, the MI-convex model achieves cost savings of up to 38.95% in both grids, outperforming the VSA, SCA, and STOA. Full article

Hybrid-energy vessels offer significant advantages in reducing carbon emissions and air pollutants by integrating traditional internal combustion engines, electric motors, and new energy technologies. However, during operation, the high reliance of hybrid-energy ships on networks and communication systems poses serious data security risks. Meanwhile, the complexity of energy scheduling presents challenges in obtaining feasible solutions. To address these issues, this paper proposes an innovative two-stage security optimization scheduling framework aimed at simultaneously improving the security and economy of the system. Firstly, the framework employs a CNN-LSTM hybrid model (WOA-CNN-LSTM) optimized using the whale optimization algorithm to achieve real-time detection of false data injection attacks (FDIAs) and post-attack data recovery. By deeply mining the spatiotemporal characteristics of the measured data, the framework effectively identifies anomalies and repairs tampered data. Subsequently, based on the improved multi-objective whale optimization algorithm (IMOWOA), rapid optimization scheduling is conducted to ensure that the system can maintain an optimal operational state following an attack. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed framework achieves a detection accuracy of 0.9864 and a recovery efficiency of 0.969 for anomaly data. Additionally, it reduces the ship’s operating cost, power loss, and carbon emissions by at least 1.96%, 5.67%, and 1.65%, respectively. Full article

In this paper, we formulate optimization problems and successive convex relaxations to perform optimal transmission switching (OTS) in order to operate power transmission grids more efficiently. OTS may be crucial in future power grids with much higher penetrations of renewable energy sources, which will introduce more variability and intermittency in generation. Similarly, OTS can potentially help mitigate the effects of unpredictable demand fluctuations (e.g., due to extreme weather). We explore and compare several different formulations for the OTS problem in terms of the computational performance and optimality. In particular, we build upon the literature by considering more complex and accurate power flow formulations for OTS and introducing novel convex relaxations. This allows us to model the grid physics more accurately than prior works and generalize to several different types of networks. We also apply our methods to small transmission test cases as a proof of concept to determine the effects of applying OTS. Full article

The integration of battery energy storage systems (BESSs) within active distribution networks (ADNs) entails optimized day-ahead charge/discharge scheduling to achieve effective peak shaving.The primary objective is to reduce peak demand and mitigate power deviations caused by intermittent photovoltaic (PV) output. Quasi-static time-series (QSTS) co-simulations for determining optimal heuristic solutions at each time interval are computationally intensive, particularly for large-scale systems. To address this, a two-stage intelligent BESS scheduling approach implemented in a MATLAB–OpenDSS environment with parallel processing is proposed in this paper. In the first stage, a rule-based decision tree generates initial charge/discharge setpoints for community BESS units. These setpoints are refined in the second stage using an optimization algorithm aimed at minimizing community net load power deviations and reducing peak demand. By assigning each ADN community to a dedicated CPU core, the proposed approach utilizes parallel processing to significantly reduce the execution time. Performance evaluations on an IEEE 8500-node test feeder demonstrate that the approach enhances peak shaving while reducing QSTS co-simulation execution time, utility peak demand, distribution network losses, and point of interconnection (POI) nodal voltage deviations. In addition, the use of smart inverter functions improves BESS operations by mitigating voltage violations and active power curtailment, thereby increasing the amount of energy shaved during peak demand periods. Full article

Power systems need to meet the ever-increasing demand for higher quality and reliability of electricity in distribution systems while remaining sustainable, secure, and economical. The globe is moving toward using renewable energy sources to provide electricity. An evaluation of the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on the accomplishment of SDG7 (affordable and clean energy) is necessary in light of AI’s development and expanding impact across numerous sectors. Microgrids are gaining popularity due to their ability to facilitate distributed energy resources (DERs) and form critical client-centered integrated energy coordination. However, it is a difficult task to integrate, coordinate, and control multiple DERs while also managing the energy transition in this environment. To achieve low operational costs and high reliability, inverter control is critical in distributed generation (DG) microgrids, and the application of artificial neural networks (ANNs) is vital. In this paper, a power management strategy (PMS) based on Inverter Control and Artificial Neural Network (ICANN) technique is proposed for the control of DC–AC microgrids with PV-Wind hybrid systems. The proposed combined control strategy aims to improve power quality enhancement. ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. Additionally, a review of the rising role and application of AI in the use of renewable energy to achieve the SDGs is performed. MATLAB/SIMULINK is used for simulations in this study. The results from the measures of the inverter control, m, VL-L, and Vph_rms, reveal that the power generated from the hybrid microgrid is reliable and its performance is capable of providing power quality enhancement in microgrids through controlling the inverter side of the system. The technique produced satisfactory results and the PV/wind hybrid microgrid system revealed stability and outstanding performance. Full article

As renewable energy penetration and extreme weather events increase, accurately predicting power system behavior is essential for reducing risks and enabling timely interventions. This study presents a physics-informed learning approach to forecast transient voltage angles in power systems with integrated wind energy under gusty wind conditions. We developed a simulation framework that generates wind power profiles with significant gust-induced variations over a one-minute period. We evaluated the effectiveness of physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) by integrating them with LSTM (long short-term memory) and GRU (gated recurrent unit) architectures and compared their performance to standard LSTM and GRU models trained using only mean squared error (MSE) loss. The models were tested under three wind energy penetration scenarios—20%, 40%, and 60%. Results show that the predictive accuracy of PINN-based models improves as wind penetration increases, and the best-performing model varies depending on the penetration level. Overall, this study highlights the value of physics-informed learning for dynamic prediction under extreme weather conditions and provides practical guidance for selecting appropriate models based on renewable energy integration levels. Full article

The growing integration of photovoltaic (PV) energy systems and electric vehicles (EVs) introduces new challenges in managing energy flow within smart grid environments. The intermittent nature of solar energy and the variable charging demands of EVs complicate reliable and efficient power management. Existing strategies for grid-connected PV–battery systems often fail to effectively handle bidirectional power flow between EVs and the grid, particularly in scenarios requiring seamless transitions between vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and grid-to-vehicle (G2V) operations. This paper presents a novel neural network-based model predictive control (NN-MPC) approach for optimizing energy management in a grid-connected PV–battery–EV system. The proposed method combines neural networks for forecasting PV generation, EV load demand, and grid conditions with a model predictive control framework that optimizes real-time power flow under various constraints. This integration enables intelligent, adaptive, and dynamic decision making across multiple objectives, including maximizing renewable energy usage, minimizing grid dependency, reducing transient responses, and extending battery life. Unlike conventional methods that treat V2G and G2V separately, the NN-MPC framework supports seamless mode switching based on real-time system status and user requirements. Simulation results demonstrate a 12.9% improvement in V2G power delivery, an 8% increase in renewable energy utilization, and a 50% reduction in total harmonic distortion (THD) compared to PI control. The results highlight the practical effectiveness and robustness of NN-MPC, making it an effective solution for future smart grids that require bidirectional energy management between distributed energy resources and electric vehicles. Full article

In the future, higher penetrations of electrical loads in low-voltage distribution grids are to be expected. To prevent grid overload, a possible solution is coordination of controllable loads. Typical examples might be charging of electric vehicles or operation of electric heat pumps. Such loads are associated with specific requirements that should be fulfilled if possible. However, at the same time, a safe grid operation must be ensured. To this end, a corresponding optimal power flow optimization problem might be formulated and solved. This article gives a comprehensive review of the state of the art of optimal power flow formulations. It is investigated which constraint handling techniques are used and how hyper parameters are tuned when solving optimal power flow problems using metaheuristic solvers and how controllable loads and fluctuating renewable production are incorporated into optimal power flow formulations. Therefore, the literature is reviewed for pre-defined criteria. The results show possible gaps to be filled with future research: extended optimal power flow formulations to account for controllable loads, investigation of effects of choosing constraint handling techniques or hyper parameter tuning on the performance of the metaheuristic solver and automated methods for determining optimal values for hyper parameters. Full article

Balancing electricity production and distribution remains a central challenge in modern energy systems, especially with the increasing penetration of renewable sources that introduce variability and uncertainty. In this context, accurate forecasting of electricity demand is essential for grid stability and operational efficiency. This study addresses the problem of hourly electricity demand forecasting in Italy using recurrent neural networks (RNNs), particularly long short-term memory (LSTM) models, which are designed to capture complex temporal dependencies in time series data. Utilizing real consumption data from Terna—Rete Elettrica Nazionale S.p.A.—for the years 2022 and 2023, we developed and tested an LSTM model capable of predicting national hourly demand with Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) consistently below 2%. The model’s forecasts show strong agreement with official data provided by Terna, accurately capturing demand peaks and seasonal trends over both short- and medium-term horizons. In addition to evaluating predictive performance, this work proposes a reproducible methodology applicable to other national contexts or similar forecasting problems. Our findings suggest that, while data-driven models offer robust and replicable results, further improvements may require the integration of system-specific knowledge to address persistent limitations in forecasting extreme events or structural anomalies. Full article

This study explores advanced multivariate models that incorporate non-climatic exogenous variables for very short-term photovoltaic energy forecasting. By integrating historical energy data from multiple photovoltaic plants, the research aims to improve the prediction accuracy of a target plant while addressing critical challenges in electric power systems (EPS), such as frequency stability. Frequency stability becomes increasingly complex as renewable energy sources penetrate the grid because of their intermittent nature. To mitigate this challenge, precise forecasting of photovoltaic energy generation is essential for balancing supply and demand in real time. The performance of long short-term memory (LSTM) networks and bidirectional LSTM (BiLSTM) networks was compared over a 5 min horizon. Including energy generation data from neighboring plants significantly improved prediction accuracy compared to univariate models. Among the models, multivariate BiLSTM showed superior performance, achieving a lower root-mean-square error (RMSE) and higher correlation coefficients. Quantile regression applied to manage prediction uncertainty, providing robust confidence intervals. The results suggest that incorporating an exogenous power series effectively captures spatial correlations and enhances prediction accuracy. This approach offers practical benefits for optimizing grid management, reducing operational costs, improving the integration of renewable energy sources, and supporting frequency stability in power generation systems. Full article

This paper analyzes the power quality in a 400 kWp grid-connected solar photovoltaic system with storage (BESS), considering standards IEEE Std 519TM, IEEE Std 1159TM, and IEC 61000-4-30. For system analysis, a photovoltaic array model is developed. Neplan-Smarter Tools software is used for model validation, and experimental measurements are performed on the actual photovoltaic system, recording total harmonic distortion (THDi/THDv). A class B power quality monitor was used to measure three-phase electrical variables: current, voltage, power, power factor, and THD. The THD level was generated at an energy level below 20% of the rated power, resulting in high THDi. The recorded THDv remained below 2.5%, which means that its value is limited by the IEEE 519 standard. When the BESS was connected to the PCC grid, the voltage level remained regulated, and the electrical system appeared to be stable. This paper contributes a methodology and procedure for measurement and power quality assessment, allowing for THD identification and enabling designers to configure better designs and energy system protections when integrating solar photovoltaic energy into an electrical distribution network. Full article

This article is devoted to the determination of the average daily electric load and the average electric load during the hours of maximum load, taking into account the generalized coefficient A_i, using data on electricity consumption for apartment buildings and individual residential buildings in Chelyabinsk and the cities of Dushanbe and Khorog in the Republic of Tajikistan. The results of modeling the average daily electric load, taking into account the developed generalized coefficient A_i, showed that the specific power values for apartments in apartment buildings and in individual residential buildings in the city of Chelyabinsk and the cities of Dushanbe and Khorog of the Republic of Tajikistan were overestimated, taking into account the applicability in the Republic of Tajikistan of the same standard values of specific electric loads (SELs) for apartments in apartment buildings (ABs) as in the Russian Federation. According to the results of modeling using data on the average monthly electricity consumption for 226 apartments in ABs and for individual residential buildings in Chelyabinsk, and according to the proposed approach, the average daily electric load on days during the month varied in the range of 2–3.5 kW/sq and below, while that for the cities of Dushanbe and Khorog of the Republic of Tajikistan varied in the range of 2–5 kW/sq and below, which did not exceed the SEL given by RB 256.1325800.2016. However, because of the lack of other energy sources (gas supply and hot water supply) in the conditions of the Republic of Tajikistan, on the basis of the obtained maximum load time factor and the generalized coefficient ${\mathrm{A}}_{\mathrm{i}\left(\mathrm{E}\right)}$, the obtained values of actual capacity exceeded the maximum during peak hours by 1.2–2.5 times the SEL given by RB 256.1325800.2016. To increase the durability and serviceability of power supplies and enhance the effectiveness of forecasting, the authors propose an approach based on the clustering of meteorological conditions, where each cluster has its own regression model. The decrease in mean absolute error due to clustering was 0.52 MW (57%). The use of meteorological conditions allowed the forecast error to be reduced by 0.22 MW (27%). High accuracy in electrical consumption forecasting leads to increased quality of power system management in general, including under such key indicators as reliability and serviceability. Full article

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the effects of noise on the detection and localization of faults in transmission lines compensated with a unified power flow controller using traveling wave-based methods. This study focuses on the impact of harmonic and transient noises, which are inherent to power generation, transmission, and UPFC operation. A novel algorithm is proposed combining the Discrete Wavelet Transform and Clarke Transform to detect and localize faults under various noise conditions. The algorithm is tested on a simulated transmission line model in MATLAB/Simulink (Version R2022b) with noise levels of 20 dB, 30 dB, and 40 dB and transient frequencies of 1 kHz, 5 kHz, and 10 kHz. The results demonstrate that the algorithm achieves an average fault localization error of 0.523% under harmonic noise and 0.777% under transient noise, with fault detection rates of 96.3% and 90.75%, respectively. This study highlights the robustness of the traveling wave method in noisy environments and provides insights into the challenges posed by UPFC-compensated lines. Full article

This study focuses on the experimental determination of the lumped parameters of a Spoke-Type Axial-Flux Permanent Magnet (STAFPM) motor. This type of motor offers high specific torque and is well-suited for transportation applications. The studied STAFPM motor uses Ferrite magnets, which are more environmentally friendly and economical than rare earth magnets. The identification of the lumped electromechanical model parameters is carried out using static torque measurements on a dedicated test bench. The torque measurements are performed in two stages: with and without magnets mounted in the rotor. The no-load flux is determined separately by no-load tests. Together, these tests identify the key parameters of the lumped parameter model, such as self- and mutual inductances, cogging torque, and no-load flux. These parameters are then used to complement the DQ model, commonly used in electric motor analysis. While the DQ model predicts average torque well, it cannot reproduce torque ripples. The lumped parameter model, validated by three-phase DC testing, provides an accurate representation of the motor’s behavior, including torque ripples. This study also applies Maximum Torque Per Ampere (MTPA) control strategies and offers a practical alternative to 3D Finite Element Analysis (FEA), thus aiding the design of STAFPM motors. Full article

The successful integration of photovoltaic (PV) generators in cities requires careful planning that accounts for possible factors influencing their operation. Numerous authors have extensively studied these factors; however, the urban environment has its unique characteristics. This study aims to conduct a narrative review of the most common and influential urban factors that impact the operation of PV modules and explore potential mitigation strategies. Based on preliminary knowledge on the topic, a methodology was proposed according to which they are classified into two categories: those enhanced by the urban environment and those specific to it. A total of 97 studies, mostly from the last decade, were selected based on the relevance and impact criteria. Shading, soiling, and snow were analyzed in an urban context, followed by different urban-specific factors, such as the urban landscape, pollution, and the limitations of PV mounting spots, which can lead to more than 50% performance losses. The performed review also identified the key and most promising approaches for mitigation of the abovementioned factors, such as electrostatic dust cleaning and forward bias current snow removal. Furthermore, recommendations for urban landscape planning were made in the context of PV integration. This review could also be useful for designers and operators of urban PV facilities by providing them with basic guidelines for their optimization. Full article

The rapid proliferation of renewable energy sources (RESs) has significantly reduced system inertia, thereby intensifying stability challenges in modern power grids. To address these issues, this study proposes a comprehensive approach to improve the grid stability concerning RESs and load disturbances. The methodology integrates controlled energy storage systems, including ultra-capacitors (UC), superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES), and battery storage, alongside a robust frequency regulation management system (FRMS). Central to this strategy is the implementation of a novel controller which combines a constant with proportional–integral–derivative (PID) and modified fractional-order (MFO) control, forming 1+MFOPID controller. The controller parameters are optimized using a novel formulation of an improved objective function that incorporates both frequency and time domain characteristics to achieve superior performance. The efficacy of the proposed controller is validated by comparing its performance with conventional PID and fractional-order PID controllers. System stability is further analyzed using eigenvector analysis. Additionally, this study evaluates the performance of various energy storage systems and their individual contributions to frequency regulation, with a particular emphasis on the synergistic benefits of battery storage in conjunction with other storages. Finally, sensitivity analysis is conducted to assess the impact of parameter uncertainties in the system design, reinforcing the robustness of the proposed approach. Full article