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Unit of study_
ELEC5208: Active Distribution Systems
2026 unit information
Power distribution systems are undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the growing integration of distributed energy resources (DERs)—such as rooftop solar, home batteries, electric vehicles, and flexible loads. At the same time, advances in information and communication technologies are enabling the shift from traditional passive systems, which feature unidirectional power flow and limited control, to active distribution systems that are decentralised, data-rich, and dynamically managed. This unit explores the technical, computational, and regulatory dimensions of this transition. The unit has a strong emphasis on computational modelling and optimisation techniques used in active distribution systems to deal with the new emerging challenges introduced by the widespread DER adoption, including voltage rise, reverse power flows and thermal loading. In this unit, students will learn to simulate DER behaviour using power flow algorithms designed specifically for multi-wire unbalanced distribution networks, model network components (lines, transformers, voltage regulators), and apply mathematical optimisation for DER scheduling and network operation. Topics such as optimal power flow, hosting capacity assessment, and inverter-based control (Volt–VAR, Volt–Watt) are explored in depth. The course also addresses interoperability standards and data modelling principles. Through practical exercises and case studies, students will gain the analytical and computational skills needed to manage modern distribution systems and contribute to the transition toward net-zero, resilient, customer-driven energy systems.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Engineering
| Study level | Postgraduate |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | School of Electrical and Computer Engineering |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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None |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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Fundamentals of Electricity Networks, Control Systems and Telecommunications |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. understand the mathematical models of the power and information networks as part of a cyber-physical system in a ‘smart grid
- LO2. explain and evaluate the system capability, stability, reliability from a smart grid perspective
- LO3. model and analyse broadly and design substantial parts of state-of-the-art smart-grid systems while appreciating the issues for further developments
- LO4. design and simulate decision and control systems for smart grid applications including volt-VAR control, FDIR, WAMS
- LO5. demonstrate an understanding of concepts, selected analysis and design techniques in modern power systems, i.e. the interaction of large-scale generation, transmission and distribution including distributed generation, micro-grids and virtual power plants
- LO6. undertake knowledge building by drawing on many and varied information sources specific to the power systems industry for new designs and solutions to problems
- LO7. communicate specific design project material through proper engineering presentations and reports
- LO8. make a substantial contribution to a team project where members have some overlapping and complementary skills.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
| Session | MoA ? | Location | Outline ? |
|---|---|---|---|
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Semester 1 2026
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Normal day | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney |
Outline unavailable
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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