D-PMU based applications for emerging active distribution systems: A review

In recent years, the design of low-cost distribution phasor measurement units (D-PMU) together with the development of relevant applications for emerging active distribution systems are in ascendant. Pilot distribution systems have shown prominent evidence on the necessity and benefits of deploying D-PMUs for various applications. To this end, D-PMUs are recognized as indispensable in constituting the next-generation distribution systems. However, it is noticed that existing review papers on prevailing D-PMU based applications is very limited, let alone the state-of-the-art progresses in academic research field. To bridge the gap, this paper reviews four categories of D-PMU based applications in emerging active distribution systems, including: (1) system state awareness, (2) event detection, (3) auxiliary operation, and (4) data mining. In each category, backgrounds, current statuses, and future research directions of applications are discussed thoroughly. Among all reviewed applications, several are evaluated as containing high potential benefits but with low research interests, and consequently deserve immediate attentions.