PLATOS: Planning Tool for Optimized Storage

PLATOS has been developed to optimize the application of storage systems in electrical distribution networks with distributed energy resources.

If storage systems are to be applied in electrical distribution networks typical questions may arise like:

• What type of storage systems should be applied?

• What is the optimal size of the storage system?

• Where should the storage system be located?

• What are the technical and econmical benefits of applying the storage system?

PLATOS has been developed to optimize the application of storage systems in electrical distribution networks with distributed energy resources. PLATOS finds the optimal numbers, types and locations of the storage systems. It solves the storage planning problem, while maintaining all operational constraints.

PLATOS is based on a well known artificial evolution technique: genetic algorithms. Instead of evaluating all possible storage alternatives, the tool generates storage alternatives itself. PLATOS is a versatile and flexible tool for network planners. It can be used for all kinds of power systems and storage systems. Furthermore the optimization objectives, both technical and economical, can be defined by the user. PLATOS will find storage alternatives that have the best performance. With regard to this aspect taking into account all technical and economical constraints. Other applications are preventing overloads, mitigation of voltage dips and trading.

It is up to the user to define the solution space in which the optimal storage solution should be found. The results are presented in tabular form as well as graphically. By the use of symbols and colors the user is informed about the performance of each proposed individual storage solution.