Novel hierarchical energy management system for enhanced black start capabilities at distribution and transmission networks

A novel energy management system featuring a unique framework involving multiple hierarchical controllers at the distribution and transmission network levels is proposed. The unique objective function of this energy management system is designed to enhance system inertia during black start and optimise load shedding. The objective function further aims to increase reliance on renewable energy sources, prioritising solar power along with battery and fuel cell technologies. This work delves deeply into the dynamics of multi-area power networks, where some areas possess black start capabilities (BSAs) while others do not (NBSAs). The proposed energy management system specifically explores the complex interplay between these black start capabilities and the hierarchical load restoration order. During grid blackouts, the systems located in BSA areas are tasked with first restoring essential loads in their own regions before extending aid to the adjacent NBSA areas, taking into account factors such as their available reserved power and geographical proximity. This work is extended to analyse complex multi-area power network architectures. This extended analysis provides invaluable insights for enhancing power restoration processes and facilitating the large-scale integration of sustainable energy solutions in complex systems. The proposed energy management system is validated using the IEEE 39-Bus network, which consists of ten distinct areas, each differing in their black start capabilities. The results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed system.