Implementation of distribution network development plans according to EU directive 2019/944: possibilities for automation

To support the integration of renewable energy sources, and increase the transparency for flexibility requirements, EU released the EU directive 2019/944. It enforces distribution system operators to develop network development plans (NDPs) for their respective networks. This paper present the results from an interview study conducted to gain insights from some of the member states that have already implemented the directive, to learn from their experience. The study found overall that current systems inability to export and share data through simple means requires large amount of resources from the DSOs. Furthermore the role of flexibility in NDPs was analysed. With more flexibility from the demand side it was found that behaviour scenario will play a vital role in order to assess the hosting capacity.