Analysis and optimisation of battery storage systems for mitigation of the effect of PV and EV on the Maltese Islands electrical network

Abstract

This paper shall look at storage technologies for the application to the Maltese islands as a means to carry out peak shaving of the power demand and reduction of reverse power flow into the Medium Voltage (MV) Network. Moreover storage, whether large scale or distributed, if strategically located, shall contribute to reduced stress on the electrical network infrastructure thus allowing it to provide service to new customers without having to upgrade the cables or existing transformer. Distributed storage can also reduce dramatically distribution losses and improve the overall efficiency. The paper briefly discusses the various means of energy storage, their capabilities, limitations, advantages and cost comparisons. The paper shall consider in detail a case study for storage application in second largest island of the Maltese Islands. Real life load patterns were obtained for the electricity demand and PV energy production on this island. Two scenarios will be studied, the current situation and the deployment of EVs on the island. For each scenario the Summer, Winter and Mid-Season instances shall be investigated.