Development of an RTU for synchrophasors estimation in active distribution networks

The centralized control of active distribution networks with large penetration of dispersed resources requires algorithms capable of providing network state estimation. Within this context, the measurement of bus voltage synchrophasors provides useful data that increase the observability of the network. The peculiar characteristics of distribution networks, such as feeder impedances, power flows and harmonic distortion, are different from those of transmission networks. Therefore, in order to obtain reasonably low uncertainty levels, Remote Terminal Units (RTU) with specific characteristics need to be developed. The paper presents an algorithm developed for the synchrophasor measurement in active distribution networks together with its implementation into a specific hardware based on a real-time microcontroller. The paper also presents the experimental characterization of the developed RTU by making reference to both single-tone and distorted signals. © 2009 IEEE.