Smart distribution networks are one of the key research topics of countries looking to modernise electric power networks. Smart Electricity Distributions Networks aims to provide a basic discussion of the smart distribution concept and new technologies related to it, including distributed energy resources (DERs), demand side integration, microgrids, CELL and virtual power plants. With writing from leading contributors in the field of smart distribution networks, this volume discusses different concepts within the field as well as the best methods to analyse smart distribution systems to provide a cohesive overview of issues relating to Smart Grid and related technologies. This book will be valuable to those with an interest in understanding the technologies and performance of smart distribution networks as well as engaging with the wider debate over the future Smart Grid.

Smart distribution networks are one of the key research topics of countries looking to modernise electric power networks. Smart Electricity Distributions Networks aims to provide a basic discussion of the smart distribution concept and new technologies related to it, including distributed energy resources (DERs), demand side integration, microgrids, CELL and virtual power plants. With writing from leading contributors in the field of smart distribution networks, this volume discusses different concepts within the field as well as the best methods to analyse smart distribution systems to provide a cohesive overview of issues relating to Smart Grid and related technologies. This book will be valuable to those with an interest in understanding the technologies and performance of smart distribution networks as well as engaging with the wider debate over the future Smart Grid.

This book presents tutorial overviews for many applications of variational methods to molecular modeling. Topics discussed include the Gibbs-Bogoliubov-Feynman variational principle, square-gradient models, classical density functional theories, self-consistent-field theories, phase-field methods, Ginzburg-Landau and Helfrich-type phenomenological models, dynamical density functional theory, and variational Monte Carlo methods. Illustrative examples are given to facilitate understanding of the basic concepts and quantitative prediction of the properties and rich behavior of diverse many-body systems ranging from inhomogeneous fluids, electrolytes and ionic liquids in micropores, colloidal dispersions, liquid crystals, polymer blends, lipid membranes, microemulsions, magnetic materials and high-temperature superconductors. All chapters are written by leading experts in the field and illustrated with tutorial examples for their practical applications to specific subjects. With emphasis placed on physical understanding rather than on rigorous mathematical derivations, the content is accessible to graduate students and researchers in the broad areas of materials science and engineering, chemistry, chemical and biomolecular engineering, applied mathematics, condensed-matter physics, without specific training in theoretical physics or calculus of variations.

This book investigates the role of gas networks in future low-carbon energy systems, and discusses various decarbonisation pathways, providing insights for gas network operators, developers, and policy makers. As more countries around the world move towards low-carbon energy systems and increase their exploitation of renewable energy sources, the use of natural gas and the associated infrastructure is expected to undergo a substantial transformation. As such there is a great uncertainty regarding the future role of gas networks and how they will be operated in coming years. The topics addressed include: Fundamentals of gas network operation The impact of variable renewable electricity generation on the operation and expansion of gas networks The impact of decarbonising heat supplies on gas networks Opportunities and challenges of utilising gas networks to transport alternative low-carbon gases such as bio-methane and hydrogen

Original and highly relevant insight and analysis of the interdependencies and interaction between multi-vector energy systems Energy supply networks are undergoing a radical transformation affecting all energy vectors, from electric power and heating and cooling systems to gas and hydrogen networks. These developments significantly increase the coupling and interactions between the vectors as they increase the efficiency and lower the environmental impact of the energy supply system. This book provides an introduction to the basic characteristics of energy supply systems including demand, generation, storage, and design and operation current practice of the interconnecting networks. The analysis methods described include not only calculation approaches for each individual energy vector but also integrated analysis and optimisation. The applications of integrated multi-vector energy supply networks are introduced at different levels: from building to community level and then to national level. Integration of low carbon transport is also discussed. Key features: * Provides a self-contained, single-source resource to the analysis and realisation of integrated sustainable energy supply networks. * Introduces energy supply networks from basic principles, assuming only basic knowledge of mathematics, physics, fluids and circuits. * Describes the key technologies of integrated multi-vector energy supply networks enabling the reader to engage with the immediate development of the sustainable low carbon energy system and take part in the debate over future energy systems. Integrated Energy Supply Networks is essential reading for undergraduate engineering students studying energy; lecturers; MSc and PhD students in energy related disciplines; energy network researchers; and consultants and research staff working on energy systems.