The Consortium investigators have identified a four stage process for testing the feasibility of the HDPS concept. The first stage will see the conceptual design of a highly distributed power system being agreed amongst the Consortium. Subsequently the next stage will conclude with initial simulations and appraisal that will highlight the effectiveness of the highly distributed concept. Stage three will provide a demonstration in simulation of the highly distributed power system, while the fourth stage will demonstrate the required technology solutions for control, communications and power conditioning. This will be accomplished by conduct of three main work packages.

Work package 1. Conceptual Design and Simulation

WP 1 will address the primary issue of characterising the behaviour of power systems with many small DERs connected. Alternative concepts/network topologies need to be articulated together with their operational characteristics and an initial technical assessment. In particular, this research will provide valuable new output profiles, demonstrate the behaviour of many small DERs in simulation and contribute analytical tools in support of operational planning.

Work package 2. Operation and Appraisal

WP 2 is driven by the technical design concepts and device requirements identified in work package 1, and addresses the need for appraising DER options and influencing the operation of DERs within an HDPS framework. This will be essential for the effective justification of investment decisions that rely on the coordinated operation of populations of DERs within a network. In particular, this research will provide evaluation support for operational planning, a framework to support network integration, and market mechanisms to achieve the desired coordination of DERs.

Work package 3. Integration Requirements and Device Network Interfaces

WP 3 will demonstrate in hardware the capability for the coordinated action of DERs to provide reliable network support. This element will focus on proving the integration and interface elements and will, through linkage with SUPERGEN and other consortia, endeavour to influence DER device developments where appropriate. In particular, this research will provide experimental evidence of suitable operational management support, demonstrate desirable device performance, and demonstrate the physical integration of devices.