Synchrophasor applications for distributed energy resource connection and efficient grid operation

Phasor measurement units (PMUs) can produce synchronised measurements with high accuracy and granularity. Currently the technology is widely deployed on transmission systems for Wide Area Monitoring, but it has generally not been exploited at distribution level. This paper introduces some applications that utilise synchrophasor measurements to actively manage distribution networks and release more capacity for connecting distributed energy resources (DER). These applications are considered as part of future Distributed Energy Resources Management System, which offers a range of functions for improving the operation security and reliability of modern distribution networks with high DER penetration. The paper also outlines how each application can be used in a distributed control structure - an efficient control framework for managing smart grids. (4 pages)