A Control Framework for Aggregating and Dispatching Low-Voltage Flexibility in Medium-Voltage Grid Operation

IEEE International Conference on Communications, Control, and Computing Technologies for Smart Grids (SmartGridComm), pp. 1–7

Abstract

This paper presents a control framework that enables medium-voltage (MV) grid operators to access flexibility from low-voltage (LV) networks through a structured, humanin-the-loop interface. The approach centers on a local LV agent that computes a multi-period Feasible Operating Region (FOR) and executes flexibility dispatches using Model Predictive Control (MPC). Unlike prior work, the framework combines AC-feasibility, real-time operability, and operator transparency. A simulation-based case study based on a realistic German LV topology illustrates the methodology. Flexible assets, including batteries, heat pumps, electric vehicles, and PV systems, are coordinated to follow a manually selected setpoint. The results demonstrate that the framework reliably delivers grid-relevant flexibility without violating local constraints. However, the analysis also reveals rebound effects caused by synchronized asset recovery after dispatch, which may affect MV-level stability. The study concludes that while local suboptimality is acceptable, post-dispatch coordination must be improved. Future extensions include proactive FOR shaping, transition-phase control, and the integration of multi-actor environments to reflect real-world flexibility access and control structures.

Authors 5

1. Alexander Och Aachen

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   IAEW at RWTH Aachen University,Aachen,Germany

2. Steffen Kortmann Aachen

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   IAEW at RWTH Aachen University,Aachen,Germany

3. Mike Ehis Aachen

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   IAEW at RWTH Aachen University,Aachen,Germany

4. Adrian Peeck Aachen

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   IAEW at RWTH Aachen University,Aachen,Germany

5. Andreas Ulbig Aachen

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   IAEW at RWTH Aachen University,Aachen,Germany