Abstract
The development of the smart grid concept implies major changes in the operation and planning of distribution systems, particularly in Low Voltage (LV) networks. The majority of small-scale Distributed Energy Resources (DER)-microgeneration units, energy storage devices, and flexible loads-are connected to LV networks, requiring local control solutions to mitigate technical problems resulting from its integration in the system. Simultaneously, LV connected DER can be aggregated in small cells in order to globally provide new functionalities to system operators. Within this view, the Microgrid (MG) concept has been pointed out as a solution to extend and decentralize the distribution network monitoring and control capability. An MG is a highly flexible, active, and controllable LV cell, incorporating microgeneration units based on Renewable Energy Sources (RES) or low carbon technologies for small-scale combined heat and power applications, energy storage devices, and loads. The coordination of MG local resources, achieved through an appropriated network of controllers and communication system, endows the LV system with sufficient autonomy to operate interconnected to the upstream network or autonomously-emergency operation. In this case, the potentialities of DER can be truly realized if the islanded operation is allowed and bottom-up black start functionalities are implemented. To achieve this operational capability, this chapter presents the control procedures to be used in such a system to deal with the islanded operation and to exploit the local generation resources as a way to help in power system restoration in case of an emergency situation. A sequence of actions for a black start procedure is identified, and it is expected to be an advantage for power system operation regarding reliability as a result from the presence of a huge amount of dispersed generation.

Abstract
Within the smart grid (SG) paradigm, the microgrid (MG) concept has been pointed out as a pathway for the implementation of future smart distribution networks since it extends and decentralizes the distribution network monitoring and control capability and provides key self-healing capabilities to low voltage (LV) networks. The increased interest on the MG concept has led to several demonstration activities that have been exploited worldwide. Therefore, this chapter provides an overview regarding some of the laboratorial infrastructures and pilot sites dedicated to development of MG and SG concepts. Additionally, it is presented and discussed the development of a specific SG laboratorial infrastructure following the MG concept.

Abstract

Abstract
While the transmission system benefits from a high observability, the distribution system has a relatively low level of observability. This problem is already being addressed with the deployment of smart meters, in an effort to make the smart grid concept a reality. Nevertheless, as observability increases, so too does the volume of data, which makes the development of advanced software tools a very important subject. In this paper, the application of image analysis techniques to a low voltage grid is explored, by converting voltage data into an image format, using a cognitive network to evaluate and cluster grid operating modes. The proposed method is applied to a 33-bus low voltage grid to evaluate voltage profiles at each bus and the associated technical limits (voltage limits alarms).

Abstract
The integration of distributed Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at the Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV) networks increases the distribution grid flexibility to deal with high penetration of Renewable Energy Sources (RES). In addition, it also enables the deployment of key self-healing functionalities, which allow the islanded operation of small sections of the distribution network. However, new planning and real-time operation strategies are required to allow the BESS coordinated control, as well as a cost-effective and stable operation. This paper presents new tools developed for the planning and real-time operation of distribution networks integrating BESS, particularly when operating islanding. For real-time operation, a short-term emergency operation-planning tool assesses the feasibility of islanded operation of a small section of the distribution network. The long-term impact of a BESS control strategy for islanded operation is assessed through a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) tool. The results and implementation experience in real distribution network are also discussed.

Abstract
Power systems rely on ancillary services (ASs) to ensure system security and stability. Until recently, only the conventional power generation resources connected to the transmission grids were allowed to provide these ASs managed by the transmission system operators (TSOs), while distribution system operators (DSOs) had a more passive role, focused on guaranteeing distribution capacity to bring power to final consumers with enough quality. Now, with the decarbonization, digitalization and decentralization processes of the electrical networks, the growing integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) in distribution grids are displacing conventional generation and increasing the complexity of distribution networks' operation, requiring the implementation of new active and coordinated management strategies between TSOs and DSOs. In this context, DERs are becoming potential new sources of flexibility for both TSOs and DSOs in helping to manage the power system. This paper proposes a systematic characterization of both traditional and potentially new ASs for TSOs, and newly expected DSO local system services to support the new distribution grid operation paradigm, reviewing, in addition, the main TSO-DSO coordination mechanisms.