The integration of smart grid technologies in interconnected power system networks presents multiple challenges for the power industry and the scientific community. To address these challenges, researchers are creating new methods for the validation of: control, interoperability, reliability of Internet of Things systems, distributed energy resources, modern power equipment for applications covering power system stability, operation, control, and cybersecurity. Novel methods for laboratory testing of electrical power systems incorporate novel simulation techniques spanning real-time simulation, Power Hardware-in-the-Loop, Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop, Power System-in-the-Loop, and co-simulation technologies. These methods directly support the acceleration of electrical systems and power electronics component research by validating technological solutions in high-fidelity environments. In this paper, members of the Survey of Smart Grid International Research Facility Network task on Advanced Laboratory Testing Methods present a review of methods, test procedures, studies, and experiences employing advanced laboratory techniques for validation of range of research and development prototypes and novel power system solutions.

The success of the energy transition in Europe depends on the engagement of citizens and the sustainable replacement of conventional generation with renewable production. Highlights of the PAN European Technology Energy Research Approach (PANTERA) project, a H2020 coordination and support action, are presented in this paper. In broad terms, PANTERA offers a forum for actors in the smart grid to support the expansion of activities in smart grid research, demonstration, and innovation, especially in the below-average spending member states in the European Union (EU). The focus of this paper is on those activities of the project consortium related to the identification of gaps and barriers in regulations, standards, and network codes that hinder the sustainable engagement of energy citizens in the energy transition. The paper summarises the challenges to citizen engagement in the energy transit and considers the enablers that make the engagement of citizens viable, e.g., demand response (DR), renewable energy resources (RESs), and modern designs for local energy markets (LEMs). We focus on the barriers to the enablers that are explicitly and implicitly related to regulations, standards, and network codes and explore aspects of the relevant regulations and standards of the sample below-average spending member states. A specific case study of a research and demonstration project in Ireland for updating the network codes is also presented to demonstrate the ways in which member states are attempting to remove the barriers and enable citizen participation in the smart energy transition. Finally, the opportunities to foster smart grid research and innovation through shared knowledge and insights offered by the PANTERA European Interconnection for Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship (EIRIE) platform are highlighted.

This paper presents energy flows management of multiple electric vehicles charging and its impact on a microgrid. The studied low voltage grid comprises also two photovoltaic generators and non-dispatchable loads. Three concepts using electric vehicles batteries as a distributed storage and bidirectional energy transfer in the Smart Grid are considered: Vehicle to Home, Vehicle to Vehicle and Vehicle to Grid. The potential for implementation of flexible microgrid energy flow management strategy for reduction of peaks in power consumption, absorption or production of reactive power (when required) and improving the power quality in the studied microgrid are estimated. For this purpose a set of usual load profiles of electric vehicle charging modes are studied and presented. Simulation results demonstrate the potential of electric vehicles as a flexible load and energy storage for peak load shaving in microgrids.DOI: 10.5755/j01.eie.25.1.22730

This publication presents a research on the Voltage Control Strategies for Distribution networks with Distributed Energy Resources (DER). Taking into account the network topology and the load and generation profiles some typical states are calculated using the STATUS power system analysis software. Furthermore, a quasi-dynamic analysis and test case with distributed photovoltaic generators (PVG) in a distribution network is performed in order to demonstrate the interaction of different converter interfaced DER and other network controlled elements such as under load tap changers. Based on the results obtained valuable conclusions and recommendations are made.

This paper describes a new physical model for micro-, mini- and nanogrid research and testing, which has been developed and realized at the Power System Stability Laboratory (PSSL) of the Technical University - Sofia. Created to be flexible, the model allows for an investigation of various configurations and schemes performed in different test scenarios. It allows for a variety of physical tests focused on power system stability studies, micro- and nanogrid control, distribution grid and bulk power system control solutions, distributed generation, load and electrical vehicles control strategies, electronic power converter solutions testing, etc.