Cost-Benefit Analysis of Conservation Voltage Reduction Incorporated in Open Modeling Framework

摘要

Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) is a well-tested technique for lowering energy consumption and reducing peak demand; however, planning the deployment of CVR is a time-consuming practice. In this work, we present a fast, highly automated process for cost-benefit analysis of CVR opportunities. Specifically, we present models that enable a utility to: (i) visualize feeders based on their suitability for CVR implementation, (ii) perform a detailed cash flow analysis of their return on investment from CVR for a particular feeder, and (iii) predict whether the end-of-line voltage on the feeder will stay within the permissible ANSI slandered band under expected load conditions. Results presented are from a distribution feeder at a Midwestern rural electric cooperative. The model is incorporated in the Open Modeling Framework (OMF), a modeling platform developed by National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. It provides capabilities for data conversion, model execution, visualization and collaboration via a web interface. Models built on this platform aim to solve engineering planning and cost-benefit analysis for emerging and hard-to-monetize distribution technologies such as CVR, distributed generation, energy storage, and demand response. One of the solvers that OMF integrates is GridLAB-D™, a software package that can perform powerflow solutions for distribution utility feeders with the capability of modeling a large variety of equipment not typically found in commercial engineering analysis tools. This paper provides an overview of the OMF platform and its efficacy in solving problems associated with planning CVR implementation.