Analyzing retail pricing options in distribution systems

Details

Supervisors

Papavasiliou, Anthony

Faculty

Ecole polytechnique de Louvain

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur civil en mathématiques appliquées

Abstract

This master thesis studies the ecological expansion of electricity distribution systems. At first, we will examine a distribution system situated in the Californian Bay area. Its network structure and topological characteristics are extracted in order to generate a typical distribution system feeder using duplication of certain network structures. The second part of the thesis is devoted to a new framework for designing low voltage parts of a distribution system when customers are allowed to install photo voltaic (PV) systems. A convex multi-stage perfect foresight optimization problem minimizing the system annuity is then proposed and solved based on the framework's assumptions. This optimization problem computes how much complementary technologies have to be installed next to the chosen PV systems. The results tell us that the battery energy storage system (BESS) construction is prioritized as it reduces the development of the needed maximal power capacity of the low voltage lines. Finally, the customer behavior is studied as a response to flat rate, time of use and real time retail pricing using linear and convex multi-stage stochastic optimization problems. Flat rate and time of use pricing induce inappropriate customer response while real time pricing results in ecologically efficient network and enhanced financial behavior.