Data-Driven Approach for Distributed Generation Impacts Assessment in the Brazilian Regulatory Framework

The electric distribution sector is facing significant challenges in integrating distributed energy resources (DERs), with most assessment methodologies being primarily tested on standard feeders. However, given the nature of electric distribution systems, each feeder is unique and constantly changing, emphasizing the need for customized and updated feeder models for local quantitative studies. These studies encompass network operation, expansion planning, and DER integration. In response to this context, this paper proposes a methodology for extracting and processing information from public data to model up-to-date electric feeders. As these feeder models represent real operating circuits, they can be utilized by utilities, investors, and consumers. The proposed approach involves processing data from the Brazilian utilities’ geographic database (BDGD, in Portuguese) to develop structured simulations of distribution feeders using OpenDSS software. The BDGD standards are established by the Brazilian National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL). In order to validate the methodology, two case studies are presented evaluating the impacts of distributed generation on real feeders from the Brazilian utilities: Minas Gerais Electric Power Company (CEMIG) and Bahia State Electricity Company (Neoenergia COELBA).