Real Time Distribution Grid Visualization using Smart Meters

The electric distribution system today is seeing the rapid integration of different new technologies such as electric vehicles and Distributed Energy Resources which can all severely degrade its effectiveness such as reduced line hosting capacity, poor voltage quality etc. The real-time monitoring of the distribution grid will allow for better decision making for distribution system operator thus helping to improve the situation with the real time information of the grid. This paper proposes a methodology for real time visualization of grid where the data from smart sensors are collected which are located at domestic loads, transformer and roof top photovoltaics and then transferred to an electrical software containing model of distribution system under study; Power flow analysis is then performed in the software to calculate different monitoring variables such as line hosting capacity, nodal voltage and power losses. The system is implemented and tested for the distribution system of Kathmandu University. The field result show that the proposed method can provide the grid status in an efficient manner.