Large-scale integration of distributed energy resources in power networks

The focus of the European Union (EU) energy policy is on the promotion of low-carbon technologies and renewable-energy sources. In pursuit of this target, EU countries are setting up adequate support schemes (e.g. feed-in-tariffs). This is giving rise to different generation technologies and growing share of small scale generation in power networks. The paper deals with the impact of distributed energy resources (DER) on network operation and key technologies that would enable DER large-scale penetration in power networks. A concept of active distribution networks and its main building blocks is introduced.