Flexible Voltage Control Strategy for Photovoltaic Inverters in Distribution Networks Considering Dynamic Cluster Partitioning

With the advancement of the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals, large-scale grid integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems has become a core trend in the development of distribution networks (DNs). However, this high penetration breaks the inherent spatiotemporal symmetry of power flow in traditional DNs, leading to severe spatiotemporal imbalance issues, including voltage violations, reverse power flow, and a sharp increase in network power loss. To address these challenges, an optimized flexible control method for PV inverters in DNs considering cluster partitioning is proposed in this paper. First, a comprehensive performance index system integrating improved modularity, source-load matching degree, and voltage sensitivity is constructed, which quantifies the electrical coupling symmetry and source-load power symmetry within clusters, providing a rigorous quantitative basis for dynamic cluster partitioning. Moreover, based on a dynamic monitoring mechanism, an improved Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm for cluster partitioning is proposed to achieve the optimal cluster partitioning of DN nodes and the selection of key control nodes. Finally, a Q-V flexible control model of the inverter adapted to cluster control is established; thus, an optimization model with the objectives of minimizing voltage deviation, PV curtailment loss, and PV reactive power output is constructed. The distributed and efficient solution is performed using the Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers algorithm and the GUROBI solver. Simulation results based on the modified IEEE 123-node test feeder show that, compared with traditional methods, the proposed method improves the cluster partitioning effectiveness, ensures that the operating voltage deviation of the control system is within 5%, and reduces the PV curtailment loss of the system.