Prospects for the integration of distributed energy sources into the Ukrainian power grid

The integration of distributed energy sources (DES) into the Ukrainian power grid is a critical aspect of modern energy development aimed at increasing the efficiency of the power system, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving the country’s energy security. The purpose of this overview and analysis study was to identify the technical and automation aspects of DES integration, as well as to determine the prospects and challenges associated with their adaptation to centralised grids. The study discussed the principal technical challenges arising from the integration of solar, wind, bioenergy, and other DES into the Ukrainian power grid. Particular attention was paid to the issues of stability and quality of electricity supply, the need to modernise the grid infrastructure, and the use of inverter technologies, energy storage systems (ESS), and hybrid microgrids. The study analysed modern methods of automation and control of distributed generation using Smart Grid, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), and Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS) technologies, which help to optimise the operation of the power system, increase its reliability and flexibility under variable load conditions. The study considered adaptive control algorithms, mathematical forecasting models, and neural network algorithms that enable prompt adjustment of equipment operating modes, ensuring the stability of the system. It was found that the introduction of inverter systems, SPPs, and hybrid microgrids can reduce average energy consumption by 12-18% and reduce peak loads on the grid by 15-20%. This is a crucial factor in ensuring the reliability of electricity supply, especially in regions with a greater share of decentralised generation. The use of Smart Grid and DERMS technologies increases the efficiency of DES integration and ensures flexible management of electricity generation and consumption. The obtained findings demonstrated the feasibility of implementing integrated solutions that include the use of renewable energy sources, DERMS, and smart management. The recommendations included infrastructure modernisation, development of hybrid ESSs, and implementation of integrated digital monitoring and control systems. The practical value of this study lies in the development of approaches to the effective integration of DES into local power systems, which can be used in the design and implementation of microgrids in Ukraine