Wide-area voltage optimisation for active distribution networks

This paper presents the deployment and validation of a Wide-Area Voltage Optimisation (WAVO) framework for active distribution networks with high penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs). WAVO is powered by SMPnet’s Optisys optimisation engine, which integrates a physics-informed digital twin with real-time Optimal Power Flow (OPF) to enable proactive, wide-area voltage and reactive power control while remaining compatible with existing automation and protection schemes. The framework was validated through two complementary test assessments. First, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing conducted at the Power Networks Demonstration Centre (PNDC) demonstrated Optisys’ ability to autonomously resolve emergency transformer overload events under dynamic, real-time conditions. Second, WAVO was applied to a digital twin of a UK Power Networks grid area under a representative high-PV summer scenario. In this case, the framework eliminated all voltage violations, reduced on-load tap changer (OLTC) tap operations by approximately 68%, and prevented DER disconnections without requiring network reinforcement. Achieved without infrastructure upgrades or modification of existing protection schemes, WAVO demonstrates a scalable, non-invasive solution for enhancing voltage stability, asset longevity, and grid hosting capacity in increasingly complex distribution networks.