A novel evaluation framework for energy losses in low voltage distribution grids

Decentralization of energy generation in power distribution systems is a key strategy to incorporate more small-scale renewable sources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase energy efficiency. Beside the integration of more decentralized generation, an efficient grid operation is equally important to achieve an overall sustainable energy system. Thus, accurate determination of energy losses in distribution systems is a fundamental task. In this thesis, a novel evaluation framework for grid losses is developed. First, a loss evaluation approach based on comprehensive assessment of grid features and the reference grid modeling scheme is proposed. Second, a novel analytical indicator is introduced for fast estimation of the grid losses considering the installed distributed generators. For grid operators, this new evaluation framework is a practical and technically validated tool. Applying this evaluation framework for energy losses can support grid operators to understand the origin and development trends of losses at very large scales. The proposed evaluation approaches of energy losses can greatly contribute to improve energy efficiency and sustainability of distribution systems.