A Methodology for the Techno-Economic Assessment of MVDC Integration in Distribution Networks

This article proposes the use of a comprehensive methodology for the implementation of MVDC (Medium Voltage Direct Current) technologies in AC medium-voltage distribution grids. The objective is to evaluate technical advantages and economic consequences of transforming portions of AC networks to DC or incorporating DC-based technologies. The approach is tested on three test cases, results show that MVDC solutions can address problems like line overloads, voltage rise, and power flow inversion. These solutions are, however, always more expensive by orders of magnitude 3 to 10 than conventional AC reinforcements, thus placing attention on the need for a case-by-case strategy in order to obtain a technical benefit that counterbalances the excess expenditure compared to a traditional solution.