Optimal allocation of a VRB energy storage system for wind power applications considering the dynamic efficiency and life of VRB in active distribution networks

This paper aims at specifying the optimal allocation of a vanadium redox flow battery (VRB) energy storage system (ESS) for maintaining power balance of active distribution networks for wind power applications. Correspondingly, an optimal allocation approach for the VRB ESS was proposed. Different with the previous researches, the dynamic efficiency and life of VRB are considered in the proposed mathematical framework. Also, this proposed mathematical framework made a comprehensive assessment of the total benefits including the consumption of wind power, the reduced load interruption, greenhouse gas emission, network loss, and the capital cost of VRB ESS. These economic indicators are used to evaluate the penetration of VRB ESS and the economy of ADNs can achieve to the optimal with the designed VRB ESS. Finally, the proposed optimal allocation approach was validated and tested by a modified IEEE 33-bus system and IEEE 123 node system. Test results have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed optimal allocation approach associated with the power flow operation characteristics of active distribution networks.