Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 2
Integrated modelling review
A holistic approach on optimal operation of energy infrastructures with distributed
energy resources (DERs) requires the development of an analytical tool that can
assess multiple elements simultaneously. However, a combined modelling of energy
networks can also have other motivations. Literature shows three factors have moti-
vated studying network interdependency and therefore play a role in how energy will
be delivered tomorrow; these are:
Security : Improving the robustness and reliability of critical systems;
Environment : Determining sustainable urban area models;
Smart systems : Integrating new technologies into networks.
First, the relevance of enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructures started
when stakeholders made it a priority to secure the provision of essential services
[35,36]. As a consequence, it is of paramount importance for stakeholders that the
services provided by key infrastructures are not interrupted by either natural or man-
made hazards [37]. Hence, the approach taken from these publications on this subject
comes from a security perspective [38]. Second, the immediate global future of
urbanisation has provoked academia to focus on sustainability models. As a result,
cities must reconcile the conflict between being part of a competitive network and
satisfying the day-to-day requirements of the population in a reduced carbon envi-
ronment [39]. Although the scope of this work does not concern the first two strings
of research, they are worth mentioning since they share similar backgrounds. The
following literature review concerns the imminent issues that power engineers should
address in the continuing evolution of sustainable energy systems. Therefore, this
chapter covers topics concerning: state of the art on future DER scenarios facing the
grid, integrated energy flow modelling methodologies and combined natural gas and
electric network studies.
2.1
Modelling issues concerning DERs
2.1.1 Meeting the challenges of decentralised power generation
The theoretical framework analysing the impacts embedded technologies might have
on electric distribution networks began in the 1980s [40,41]. Still, the deployment
of these technologies was not imminent, and this fact delayed continuing research
 
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