Analyzing the Impact of Cellular Network Delay on Distributed Optimization of the Distribution Grid

Distributed optimization algorithms have revolutionized the decision-making process in distribution network management. Unlike their centralized counterparts, the effectiveness of distributed algorithms is significantly affected by the non-ideal states of communication networks used for data exchange. Hence, evaluating the resilience of distributed algorithms to communication imperfections is essential. Regarding this, this work examines the effectiveness of a distributed algorithm, named alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM), in a three-phase unbalanced distribution system under the network delays of three popular cellular communication technologies. The performance assessment of the algorithm is done using the IEEE 123-bus test system by optimally scheduling the inverters connected to the network to achieve voltage deviation minimization. This analysis offers valuable understanding about the efficacy of the ADMM algorithm in terms of the solution quality, number of iterations, convergence rate and update frequency.