ASC: an open-source tool for ancillary support estimation from distribution networks to upstream networks

Abstract This paper presents a Python-based tool designed for network service providers to estimate the frequency regulation and voltage support services available from the distribution networks to the upstream networks (e.g. transmission networks). The proposed tool includes a novel three-step time aggregation method to obtain representative profiles from historical time series data of loads, solar generation, wind generation, and the charging characteristics of electric vehicles. At first, the tool checks the security of distribution network considering its operating conditions. Then, it estimates available ancillary services, i.e. supports for voltage and frequency regulations, which can be provided in a safe manner for the upstream network. The performance of the designed tool has been evaluated using the real-world data from a network service provider in Australia.