Coordinated multi-layer voltage control with predictive tap scheduling for active distribution networks

Abstract

Active distribution networks with high penetration of PV, BESS, and EV charging face significant voltage regulation challenges and accelerated OLTC wear. This paper proposes a coordinated multi-layer voltage control framework operating across multiple time scales. It integrates fast local fuzzy Volt–Var and state-of-charge–aware P/Q control at the inverter/BESS level, intermediate coordinated capacitor switching, and a supervisory OLTC scheduler formulated as a model predictive control (MPC) problem. The resulting hybrid continuous–discrete closed-loop system is evaluated via time-domain co-simulation on a modified IEEE 13-bus feeder (IEEE 13-bus+SFVE) and a real 150-bus urban feeder in Manaus (RDRM), under realistic irradiance and load profiles. For the IEEE 13-bus+SFVE, the scheme reduced feeder-wide voltage violations from 15.22% to 4.83% and OLTC tap operations from 14 to 1 per day. For the RDRM feeder, violations dropped from 72.44% to 9.76%, with only one OLTC operation over 24 hours, both without PV curtailment. This integrative contribution demonstrates substantial improvements in volt-age quality and OLTC lifespan, highlighting a practical pathway for active distribution network management.