evolvDSO: Assessment of the future roles of the DSOs, future market architectures and regulatory frameworks for network integration of DRES

The distribution network is being challenged by the increasing capacity of Distributed Generation (DG), end-users embracing smart grid technologies to offer their flexibility, the continuous growth of the peak load in most European countries, the expected increase of Electric Vehicles (EVs) to hit the road by 2020 along with public charging stations. All of these evolving and new uses of electricity increase the complexity of the management of the distribution system.

Current trends impose challenges that impact the ability of the DSO to carry out his responsibilities: develop, operate, and maintain the network in order to deliver high-quality services to grid users and other stakeholders of the electric power system, while ensuring safety of people, assets most efficient use and system security in cooperation with TSOs.

DSOs need to evolve from its former “fit and forget” approach towards an Active Distribution System Management approach to ensure the fulfilment of DSOs’ core responsibilities by taking advantage of the opportunities brought by smart grid technologies.

The exploration of these opportunities could lead to the provision of new regulated services, the facilitation of electricity markets, the empowerment of the end-customers and the creation of sustainable public policies for the cost-efficient integration of renewables. This evolution will allow DSOs to provide an adequate Quality of Service (QoS) and to enhance the Security of Supply (SoS) in a cost-efficient way.