Distributed power generation is a technology that could help to enable efficient, renewable energy production both in the developed and developing world. It includes all use of small electric power generators, whether located on the utility system, at the site of a utility customer, or at an isolated site not connected to the power grid. Induction generators (IGs) are the cheapest and most commonly used technology, compatible with renewable energy resources. Permanent magnet (PM) generators have traditionally been avoided due to high fabrication costs; however, compared with IGs they are more reliable and productive

Distributed Generation thoroughly examines the principles, possibilities and limitations of creating energy with both IGs they are more reliable and productive.

Distributed Generation thoroughly examines the principles, possibilities and limitations of creating energy with both IGs and PM generators. It takes an electrical engineering approach in the analysis and testing of these generators, and includes diagrams and extensive case study examples o better demonstrate how the integration of energy sources can be accomplished. The book also provides the practical tools needed to model and implement new techniques for generating energy through isolated or grid-connected systems.

Besides a chapter introducing the technical, econo9mic and environmental impact so distributed generation, this book includes: an examination of various phase-balancing schemes for a three-phase IG operating on a single-phase power system; a coupled circuit 2-D finite element analysis of a grid-connected IG, with Steinmetz connection; a study of self-excited induction generator (SEIG)schemes for autonomous power systems, and the voltage and frequency control of SEIG with a slip-ring machine (SESRIG); a report on a PM synchronous generator with inset rotor for achieving a reduced voltage regulation, and an analysis of its performance using a two-axis model and finite element method; experimental work on various IG and SEIG schemes.

This book is a must-read for engineers, consultants, regulators, and environmentalists involved in energy production and delivery, helping them to evaluate renewable energy sources and to integrate these into an efficient energy delivery system. It is also a superior reference for undergraduates and postgraduates. Designers, operators, and planners will appreciate its unique contribution to the literature in this field.

Cutting-edge research indicates that evolutionary programming is set to emerge as the dominant optimisation technique in the fast-changing power industry. Combining theory and practice, Intelligent System Applications in Power Engineering capitalises on the potential of neural networks and evolutionary computation to resolve real-world power engineering problems such as load forecasting, power system operation and planning optimisation. Unlike existing optimisation methods, these novel computational intelligence techniques provide power utilities with innovative solutions for improved performance. Features include:

• Introduction to evolutionary programming and neural networks serving as a foundation for later discussion of the benefits of hybrid systems
• Practical application of evolutionary programming to reactive power planning and dispatch for speedy, cost-effective increases in transmission capacity plus generator parameter estimation
• Examination of economic dispatch, power flow control in FACTS and co-generation scheduling and fault diagnosis for HVDC systems and transformers
• Consideration of power frequency and harmonic evaluation to maximise supply quality
• Employment of distance protection, faulty section estimation and calculation of fault clearing time for transient stability assessment

Power system restructuring and deregulation is underway on a worldwide scale. The introduction of independent power generators, distributors and brokers has brought new challenges to the task of maintaining a reliable electricity system. Providing practical guidance to the changes ahead, this book details the competitive, regulatory and technological advances redesigning the management of power utility companies.

Features include:

• State-of-the-art techniques in power industry restructuring including guidance on asset management, transmission balancing and meter management systems.
• International case studies addressing industry-wide problems and presenting practical solutions.
• Tools for the modelling and analysis of competitive power markets.
• Coverage of the environmental impact of industry restructuring.
• Discussion of the costs and benefits associated with deregulation and restructuring.
• Survey of the new strategies and technologies available for electricity generation, transmission and distribution.