Generation adequacy assessment incorporating equivalent probabilistic models of virtual power plants

This paper proposes a general methodology for performing generating system adequacy assessment of power systems incorporating several Distributed Energy Resources (DER) located at different nodes of a given distribution network. The disparate operating characteristics as well as capacities of individual DERs along with information about local distribution network loads are combined together to form an equivalent model of a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) with respect to the transmission grid. Monte Carlo sequential simulation techniques are employed for portraying the overall characteristics of the VPP profile using a probability distribution function as well as for quantifying the VPP's contributions in improving overall system reliability. Results from sensitivity studies conducted on the Roy Billinton Test System for understanding the effects of changes in different parameters associated with the VPP on its overall profile characteristics are also discussed.